U.S. patent number 8,702,831 [Application Number 13/793,006] was granted by the patent office on 2014-04-22 for air cleaner; replaceable filter cartridges; and, methods.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Donaldson Company, Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Donaldson Company, Inc.. Invention is credited to Steven Gieseke, Douglas Iddings, James Scott.
United States Patent |
8,702,831 |
Scott , et al. |
April 22, 2014 |
Air cleaner; replaceable filter cartridges; and, methods
Abstract
The disclosure concern air cleaners. Preferred air cleaners are
shown which include a housing and a removable and replacement
primary filter cartridge. Optional and advantageous features are
shown. The preferred primary filter cartridge is conical in shape.
A preferred optional safety or secondary filter cartridge is shown.
Preferred methods of assembly and use are provided.
Inventors: |
Scott; James (Chanhassen,
MN), Gieseke; Steven (Richfield, MN), Iddings;
Douglas (Waconia, MN) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Donaldson Company, Inc. |
Bloomington |
MN |
US |
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Assignee: |
Donaldson Company, Inc.
(Minneapolis, MN)
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Family
ID: |
35447876 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/793,006 |
Filed: |
March 11, 2013 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20130199138 A1 |
Aug 8, 2013 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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13544118 |
Jul 9, 2012 |
8394166 |
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11661011 |
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8216335 |
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PCT/US2005/029830 |
Aug 24, 2005 |
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60604554 |
Aug 25, 2004 |
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60677031 |
May 3, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
55/497; 55/385.3;
55/502; 55/423; 55/521; 55/498 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29C
44/38 (20130101); B01D 46/56 (20220101); B01D
46/2414 (20130101); B01D 46/0005 (20130101); F02M
35/0245 (20130101); B01D 46/521 (20130101); F02M
35/0201 (20130101); B01D 2201/291 (20130101); B29L
2031/14 (20130101); B29K 2075/00 (20130101); B01D
2275/201 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
B01D
39/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;55/385.3,423,497-498,502,521 ;96/189 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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EP |
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0 562 502 |
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EP |
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1 359 997 |
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EP |
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1 174 171 |
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2 119 674 |
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2 163 368 |
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Feb 1986 |
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GB |
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89/01818 |
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Mar 1989 |
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WO |
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99/42719 |
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WO |
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0 191 884 |
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Dec 2001 |
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WO |
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02/45819 |
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Jun 2002 |
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WO |
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02/078816 |
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Oct 2002 |
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WO |
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2004/039476 |
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May 2004 |
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WO |
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2007/009040 |
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Jan 2007 |
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WO |
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2007/022171 |
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Feb 2007 |
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WO |
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Other References
PCT Search Report and Written Opinion dated Dec. 22, 2005. cited by
applicant .
Drawings of parts corresponding to CRAFTSMAN part 713331 (prior to
the year 2000). cited by applicant .
Page from catalog showing assembly and operation instructions
(prior to the year 2000). cited by applicant .
Allowed claims in USSN 13/544,118 (M&G 758.1746USC1) dated Mar.
11, 2013. cited by applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Greene; Jason M
Assistant Examiner: Hawkins; Karla
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Merchant & Gould
Parent Case Text
REFERENCE TO RELATED FILINGS
This application is a continuing application of U.S. Ser. No.
13/544,118, filed Jul. 9, 2012, which has now issued as U.S. Pat.
No. 8,394,166. U.S. Ser. No. 13/544,118 was a continuing filing of
U.S. Ser. No. 11/661,011, filed Feb. 22, 2007, issued as U.S. Pat.
No. 8,216,335 and filed as a US National Stage of
PCT/US2005/029830, filed on Aug. 24, 2005 and having a claim of
priority to U.S. Ser. No. 60/604,544, filed Aug. 25, 2004 and U.S.
Ser. No. 60/677,031, filed May 3, 2005. The complete disclosures of
U.S. Ser. No. 13/544,118; U.S. Ser. No. 11/661,011;
PCT/US2005/029830; U.S. Ser. No. 60/604,554 and U.S. Ser. No.
60/677,031 are incorporated herein by reference. A claim of
priority is made to each of U.S. Ser. No. 13/544,118; U.S. Ser. No.
11/661,011; PCT/US2005/029830; U.S. 60/604,554; and, U.S.
60/677,031 to the extent appropriate.
Selected portions of the following descriptions are found in one or
both of the following two documents filed in the United States:
Provisional Application No. 60/421,882 filed Oct. 28, 2002; and
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/453,737 filed Mar. 6, 2003.
Each of these two identified provisional applications, is
incorporated herein by reference.
Also, selected portions of the following descriptions are contained
in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856, filed Oct. 23, 2003 and
published Jul. 15, 2004 as US 2004/0314171; and PCT Application US
03/33952, filed Oct. 23, 2003 and published May 13, 2004 as WO
04/039476. The complete disclosures of each of these is
incorporated herein by reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) first and second,
opposite, ends; (i) the first end having an air flow exit aperture
therethrough; (b) a conical extension of filter media, extending
between the first and second ends, surrounding an open interior and
defining a central cartridge axis; (c) a first, open, end cap
adjacent the first end of the filter cartridge; (d) a housing seal
positioned on the first end cap and including a seal surface
directed radially, with respect to the cartridge central axis, to
form a removable seal with a portion of an air cleaner, in use;
and, (e) a second, closed, end cap adjacent the second end of the
filter cartridge; (i) the second end cap having a central portion
including: an inner surface portion in overlap with the central
interior and directed toward the first end cap; and, an outer
surface opposite the inner surface portion; (ii) the second end cap
central portion axially projecting inwardly of the filter cartridge
to a location surrounded by media and defining an outer surface
recess in the outer surface thereof; (iii) the central portion
including a central projection on the outer surface surrounding and
defining an inner recess in the inner surface that is open toward
the first end cap; and, (iv) the outer surface recess surrounding
the central projection on the outer surface.
2. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the
first, open, end cap includes a molded-in-place portion with the
housing seal formed integral therewith.
3. An air filter cartridge according to claim 2 wherein: (a) the
inner recess in the inner surface extends at least 10 mm.
4. An air filter cartridge according to claim 2 wherein: (a) the
central projection on the outer surface has a conical sidewall.
5. An air filter cartridge according to claim 2 wherein: (a) the
second end cap includes a molded-in-place portion in which the
second end of the media is embedded.
6. An air filter cartridge according to claim 5 wherein: (a) the
second end cap comprises a preformed central section that includes
a portion embedded in the molded-in-place portion.
7. An air filter cartridge according to claim 6 wherein: (a) the
filter cartridge includes a liner extending from the first end cap
to the second end cap.
8. An air filter cartridge according to claim 7 wherein: (a) the
preformed central section is integral with the liner.
9. An air filter cartridge according to claim 7 wherein: (a) the
liner is an outer liner.
10. An air filter cartridge according to claim 2 wherein: (a) the
central portion of the second end cap extends inwardly of the
filter cartridge a distance of at least 20 mm.
11. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the
media has a conical angle of 1-10.degree..
12. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the
media has a conical angle of 2-7.degree..
13. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) (a)
the second, closed, end cap includes a preform including: (i) a
central, imperforate, end region; and, (ii) an outer perforate
region embedded in, and closed by, a molded-in-place portion of the
second end cap.
14. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the
media is pleated.
15. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the
housing seal is a radially outwardly directed seal.
16. An air filter cartridge according to claim 14 wherein: (a) the
first end cap has a larger outer perimeter cross-dimension than the
second end cap.
17. An air cleaner comprising: (a) a housing having an interior and
comprising a body section with an open end closed by a removable
access cover; and, (b) a main filter cartridge operably positioned
within the housing interior; the main filter cartridge comprising:
(i) first and second, opposite, ends; (A) the first end having an
air flow exit aperture therethrough; (ii) a conical extension of
filter media, extending between the first and second ends,
surrounding an open interior and defining a central cartridge axis;
(iii) a first, open, end cap adjacent the first end of the main
filter cartridge; (iv) a housing seal positioned on the first end
cap and including a seal surface directed radially with respect to
the cartridge central axis and forming a removable seal with a
portion of an air cleaner; and, (v) a second, closed, end cap
adjacent the second end of the filter cartridge; (A) the second end
cap having a central portion including: an inner surface portion in
overlap with the central interior and directed toward the first end
cap; and, an outer surface opposite the inner surface portion; (B)
the second end cap central portion axially projecting inwardly of
the filter cartridge to a location surrounded by media and defining
an outer surface recess in the outer surface thereof; (C) the
central portion including a central projection on the outer surface
surrounding and defining an inner recess in the inner surface
portion that is open toward the first end cap; and, (D) the outer
surface recess surrounding the central projection on the outer
surface.
18. An air cleaner according to claim 17 wherein: (a) the access
cover includes a projection extending into the outer surface recess
to a location surrounding the central projection on the outer
surface.
19. An air cleaner according to claim 17 wherein: (a) the
projection on the access cover extends at least 15 mm into the
cartridge; and, (b) the central projection on the outer surface
extends at least 10 mm.
20. An air cleaner according to claim 17 including: (a) a safety
filter cartridge having a conical extension of media and positioned
with the media of the safety filter surrounded by the media of the
main filter cartridge; the safety filter having an end with a
central projection extending into the inner recess of the central
projection on the main filter cartridge second end cap.
21. A method of preparing an air filter cartridge for use in an air
cleaner assembly; the method comprising steps of: (a) forming
pleated media around an open center and into a conical shape having
first and second, opposite, ends; (i) the first end of the media
having a larger outer perimeter size than a second end of the
media; (b) molding a first open end cap onto the first end of the
media; (i) the step of molding a first open end cap including
molding a housing seal, with a radially directed housing seal
surface, as part of the first end cap; and, (c) positioning a
second end cap on the second end of the media; (i) the step of
positioning including positioning a central preform, with a central
closed section, at the second end of the media; (ii) the step of
positioning including molding in place a portion of the second end
cap to the first end of the media, with the media embedded therein,
while securing the central preform in place; and, (iii) the step of
positioning a central preform at the second end comprises
positioning a preform having: (A) a central portion including: an
inner surface portion facing toward the first end of the media;
and, an opposite outer surface portion; (B) a portion extending
toward the first end of the media a maximum distance of at least 15
mm; and, (C) the central portion including a central projection on
the outer surface portion extending away from the first end of the
media and surrounding an inner recess on the inner surface
portion.
22. A method according to claim 21 wherein: (a) the step of molding
a first open end cap is conducted before the step of positioning
the second end cap.
23. A method according to claim 21 wherein: (a) the step of molding
a first open end cap is conducted after the step of positioning the
second end cap.
24. A method according to claim 21 wherein: (a) the step of molding
the first end cap comprises molding the first end cap from foamed
polyurethane; and, (b) the step of molding in place a portion of
the second end cap comprises molding that portion from foamed
polyurethane.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present disclosure concerns air cleaners with removable and
replaceable (i.e., serviceable) filter cartridges. The particular
arrangements disclosed use a first stage separator or precleaner,
to facilitate operation. Methods of assembly and use are also
provided.
BACKGROUND
Air filtering is used in a variety of arrangements. A typical
application is as an air cleaner for intake air to internal
combustion engines. After a period of use, filter media within the
cleaner requires servicing, either through cleaning or complete
replacement. Typically, for an air cleaner used with an internal
combustion engine such as on a vehicle, filter media is contained
in a removable or replaceable (i.e., serviceable) component,
element or cartridge. Examples are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,211,543; 4,135,899; 3,672,130; 5,445,241; 5,700,304; 6,051,042;
6,039,778; 5,547,480; 5,755,842; and 5,800,581; and PCT publication
WO 89/01818; the complete disclosures of all of these references
being incorporated herein by reference. U.S. application Ser. No.
09/729,033 filed Dec. 4, 2000 also shows such an element, with a
unique interaction shown between the element and an end cover. The
disclosure of the application Ser. No. 09/729,033 is also
incorporated herein by reference.
Improvements in filter arrangements relating to assembly and use,
are desirable.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure concerns features of air cleaners. The
techniques described are particularly developed for use with air
cleaners for cleaning engine air intake for an internal combustion
engine, such as used with a vehicle such as a bus, truck or mobile
equipment such as a tractor or construction equipment, or a
stationary generator. The features generally relate to air cleaners
in which filter media is part of a removable and replaceable (i.e.,
serviceable) component.
A number of improvements were brought forward in earlier U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/691,856 filed Oct. 23, 2003 and PCT
Application US 03/33952, filed Oct. 23, 2003 and figures and
embodiments depicting examples of the various arrangements
described in those filings, are provided herein. The present
disclosure relates to application certain of the techniques and
features described in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and US
03/33952, in alternate specific, advantageous, forms for certain
uses. It is noted that it is not necessary that all of the possible
features described herein for an air cleaner system or component,
be used in arrangements obtaining advantage according to the
present descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE RELATED PATENT FILINGS
Many of the improvements described in U.S. application Ser. No.
10/691,856 and PCT US 03/33952 relate to unique possible
constructions of primary filter element cartridges. Examples of
these optional improvements, described in detail below, include:
1a. An improved construction that, among other things, allows
optional use of an outer support in the primary filter cartridge;
and, no inner support that extends the entire length of the
element, for pleated media; 2a. Improved constructions relating to
a manner in which the primary filter cartridge is secured to, and
is sealed to, an air cleaner housing; 3a. An improvement in an
outer support framework of such a cartridge, relating to: (a) a
shielded area for use in connection with a dust evacuator; and, (b)
a porous area, for permitting air flow to the media in a preferred
manner; 4a. An improved shape, to accommodate certain housing
features; 5a. An improved interlock at a closed end of the filter,
to inhibit rotational movement of the filter during use; and 6a.
Improvement in an outer framework structure to facilitate cartridge
manufacture and assembly.
Optional improvements provided in U.S. application Ser. No.
10/691,856 and PCT Application US 03/33952 also relate to structure
circumscribed by the primary filter cartridge during use. Some of
these optional improvements relate, for example, to the following:
1b. A preferred support, separately mountable within the air
cleaner assembly from the primary filter cartridge, to operate as
an inner support for pleated media; 2b. Optional incorporation of
the support identified at 1b above, as a support, for example as an
outer support, for a preferred safety filter cartridge; 3b.
Improved and advantageous arrangements for securing the support
and/or secondary filter cartridge to an air cleaner housing; 4b. An
improved optional interaction between inner and outer liners of a
safety element cartridge; and, 5b. An optional improved shape/fit
relation between a safety element or inner support, and a primary
filter cartridge.
In addition, improvements described in U.S. application Ser. No.
10/691,856 and PCT Application US 03/33952 were provided with
respect to an air cleaner housing. Some of the improvements, for
example, relate to the following: 1c. Features in the housing to
facilitate preferred independent mounting of a primary filter
cartridge and inner support (or optional safety filter cartridge);
2c. An optional jointed housing sidewall, to permit change in
orientation of housing components, such as an inlet angular
orientation relative to a dust flow outlet; 3c. Preferred locations
of inlet, outlet and dust ejector tubes; 4c. An improved optional
end cover mountable through a non-rotational lock fit arrangement
that does not necessarily require added latches or similar
constructions; 5c. An improved precleaner arrangement optionally
secured to an end cover; 6c. An improved, optional, cover which is
mounted circumscribed by a portion of the housing, as opposed to
having a portion of the cover overlapping a portion of the housing;
7c. An improved, optional, rotational, indexing between the cover
and the housing; and, 8c. A cover which can include an improved
member of a projection/receiver mechanism, to inhibit undesired
rotation of an associated primary filter cartridge, during use.
In U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and PCT Application US
03/33952, improvements in a housing end cover, associated with an
air cleaner housing sidewall, were also provided. Some of these
optional improvements, for example, related to the following: 1d.
Provision of a closed end cover which optionally includes a
precleaner permanently mounted thereon; 2d. A closed end cover with
an optional integrally molded latch mechanism for non-rotational
engagement with a housing sidewall, during use; 3d. A particular
optional flexible tab/latch mechanism engageable with an end cover
through a tongue/slot interference fit; 4d. An improved, optional,
indexing arrangement for securing an end cover to a housing
sidewall; 5d. An improved, optional, mounting arrangement in which
an end cover is mounted with a portion of the housing sidewall
circumscribing the end cover and without a portion of the end cover
circumscribing the housing sidewall; and 6d. An improved, optional,
interlock arrangement on the end cover, for engaging a portion of
an associated primary filter cartridge, in use.
Also provided in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and PCT
Application US 03/33952 were improvements in use.
From the detailed discussion of U.S. application Ser. No.
10/691,856 and PCT Application US 03/39952, it would be apparent
that the preferred components can be configured to facilitate
manufacture and assembly. Examples of some of these optional
improvements include the following: 1e. An improved, optional,
outer support for a primary filter cartridge that facilitates
manufacture; 2e Preferred optional housing components, including
features as described above, in configurations that can be readily
manufactured using plastics molding techniques; 3e. Preferred
optional techniques of mounting and sealing a primary filter
cartridge in a housing; 4e. Preferred optional techniques of
mounting and sealing a secondary filter or safety filter cartridge,
in a housing; and, 5e. Improved and preferred, optional, techniques
for supporting media in a primary filter cartridge. 6e. Improved
and preferred (optional) techniques for supporting media in a
secondary or safety filter cartridge.
Specific examples of features that provide for the above, are shown
in certain of the drawings and are described in the detailed
description below. In general, individual ones are usable, to
provide improvement. In the arrangements depicted, selected one of
the various features are coordinated together, in a unique,
improved, air cleaners and in unique air cleaner componentry
arrangements.
In this application, FIGS. 34-47 depict new air cleaner, primary
filter cartridge and safety filter cartridge options,
distinguishable from, and in part using certain of the principles
characterized in, U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and PCT
Application US 03/33952, applied in a different specific
combination and arrangement, for different specific advantages.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1-33, from U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856, filed Oct.
23, 2003 and PCT Application US 03/39952, filed Oct. 23, 2003.
FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a filter assembly according to
the present identified disclosures;
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing removable
componentry, from the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIGS. 1-2
depicted without a removable dust evacuator valve;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged, exploded, fragmentary outside perspective
view of an end cover component and a primary filter cartridge, of
the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is an enlarged, exploded inside perspective view of the
components depicted in FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of a primary filter cartridge
component of the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 7 is an end view of the filter cartridge depicted in FIG. 6
looking toward end 58;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a component of the filter cartridge
depicted in FIGS. 6-7;
FIG. 9 is an end elevational view of a housing component of the
assembly depicted in FIG. 1, shown with an end cover component
removed and with certain internal componentry viewable;
FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the housing component of
FIG. 9 taken generally along line 10-10, FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of a safety element component of
the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the safety element
component of FIG. 11 taken along line 12-12, FIG. 11;
FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the safety element component of FIG.
11;
FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an
air cleaner according to the identified disclosures;
FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, perspective, view of a second alternate
embodiment of an air cleaner according to the identified
disclosures;
FIG. 16 is an end view of a portion of a third alternate embodiment
of an air cleaner according to the identified disclosures;
FIG. 17 is a side, cross-sectional view taken generally along line
17-17, FIG. 16;
FIG. 18 is an enlarged, fragmentary view of a portion of the
arrangement shown in FIG. 17, with a safety element mounted
therein;
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of
an air cleaner according to the identified disclosures;
FIG. 20 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a portion of an
alternate primary element usable in an air cleaner according to the
identified disclosures;
FIG. 21 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of an alternate
primary filter element according to the identified disclosures;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a further alternate air cleaner
housing according to the identified disclosures; and,
FIG. 23 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG.
22.
FIG. 24 is a schematic, perspective view of a further alternate air
cleaner according to the identified disclosures.
FIG. 25 is an exploded, schematic, perspective view depicting a
cover member and a primary air filter element cartridge of the
assembly of FIG. 24.
FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the primary filter element
cartridge depicted in FIG. 25.
FIG. 27 is a side, cross-sectional view of the assembly depicted in
FIG. 24.
FIG. 28 is an inlet end perspective view of further embodiment of
an air cleaner according to the identified disclosures.
FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the arrangement depicted
in FIG. 28.
FIG. 30 is a perspective view of two of the components depicted in
FIG. 29, from a view point toward an inside surface of an inlet end
cover.
FIG. 31 is a side, cross-sectional view of the assembly depicted in
FIG. 28.
FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of primary filter element
component usable in the assembly of FIGS. 28-31.
FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an outer framework component
useable in the primary filter element depicted in FIG. 32.
FIGS. 34-38 from U.S. Provisional 60/604,554 filed Aug. 25,
2004.
FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of an air cleaner arrangement
having a main filter element and secondary filter element mounted
therein, according to the present disclosure.
FIG. 35 is a side elevational, partially cross-sectional, view of
the main filter cartridge used in the air cleaner of FIG. 34.
FIG. 36 is an end view of a closed end cap of the filter cartridge
of FIG. 35; FIG. 36 the cross-section lines indicating the portion
sectioned in FIG. 35.
FIG. 37 is a side elevational view of the safety element depicted
in the air cleaner of FIG. 34; in FIG. 37 a portion being shown in
sectional view.
FIG. 38 is an end view of the open end of the filter cartridge of
FIG. 37; the cross-section line indicating the section of FIG.
37.
New FIGS. 39-47
FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of an air cleaner arrangement
having a main filter element and secondary filter element therein,
according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 39A is an enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of FIG.
39.
FIG. 40 is an enlarged end view of the air cleaner arrangement
depicted in FIG. 39.
FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of a main filter cartridge used
in the air cleaner arrangement of FIG. 39.
FIG. 41A is an enlarged side elevational view of the filter
cartridge depicted in FIG. 41, useable in the air cleaner
arrangement of FIG. 39.
FIG. 42 is an end view of the filter cartridge depicted in FIG.
41.
FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of a secondary or safety filter
cartridge used in the air cleaner arrangement of FIG. 39.
FIG. 43A is a side elevational view of the filter cartridge
depicted in FIG. 43.
FIG. 44 is an end view of the secondary filter cartridge depicted
in FIG. 43.
FIG. 45 is a schematic isometric view toward an outlet end of the
filter cartridge depicted in FIG. 41.
FIG. 46 is a side elevational view of a preform component useable
in the cartridge of FIG. 41A.
FIG. 47 is an isometric view of the preform component of FIG.
46.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present disclosure concerns an air cleaner configuration, and
component features, as disclosed in FIGS. 34-47 and described in
connection with those drawings. Various ones, or selected ones, of
the enhancements described in connection with those drawings, can
be used to provide a useful air cleaner.
FIGS. 1-33, and the description below relating to them, provides
background. The systems features described in connection with these
figures, are found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/691,856,
filed Oct. 23, 2003, and certain provisional applications from
which that application claims priority. U.S. application Ser. No.
10/691,856, published Jul. 15, 2004, as US 2004/0134171 A1. They
are also found in a corresponding PCT application US 03/33952 filed
Oct. 23, 2003 and published as WO 04/039476 on May 13, 2004.
The description of FIGS. 1-33, as included herein as background, to
provide for an understanding of features now shown and described in
connection with FIGS. 34-47. Thus, the description of FIGS. 1-33
provide background definition for the characterization of certain
features in FIGS. 34-47.
I. Background Information from U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856
and PCT Application US 03/33952
A. General Air Cleaner Configuration and Operation.
The reference numeral 1, FIG. 1, generally represents an air
cleaner assembly according to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856
and PCT Application US 03/33952. The particular air cleaner
assembly 1 depicted, is an engine combustion air intake air cleaner
assembly 2. Many of the techniques described can be applied in the
filtering or cleaning of a variety of gases. However, the details
disclosed were particularly developed for application in an air
cleaner assembly, for example for use to clean engine intake air
for an internal combustion engine, such as the engine of a vehicle
such as a truck, bus, tractor or construction equipment; or for a
generator.
Referring to FIG. 1, air cleaner assembly 2 generally comprises a
housing 3 having: an air inlet 5; an air outlet 6; and, a dust
ejector or drop tube 7. The air cleaner assembly 2 also includes
optional mounting legs or supports 8 thereon to facilitate
mounting. (Alternatively, the assembly 2 could be mounted with a
separate mounting band or bracket.) It is anticipated that the
typical orientation for the housing 2 depicted in FIG. 1, in use,
will be generally horizontal (i.e., with tube 6 extending
horizontally, as generally shown in FIG. 1, with drop tube 7
pointing down). However, many of the principles and techniques
described can be applied to air cleaner assemblies mounted in other
orientations.
The particular housing 2 depicted has a generally cylindrically
shaped outer housing sidewall 9; i.e., sidewall 9 is generally
circular in cross-section. The air inlet 5 for the embodiment shown
is a side entry 5a, i.e., entry 5a goes through sidewall 9.
Specifically, inlet 5 is a circular, tangential, inlet 10. The term
"tangential" in this context is meant to indicate that a center
line 11 of the circular inlet 10 is not directed toward a center
axis 12, FIG. 3, of the housing 3, but rather, center line 11 is
directed more tangentially. This will cause the air entering
through tangential inlet 10 (and thus directed into region 14, FIG.
3), to begin movement in a swirling pattern. The swirling pattern
is facilitated by the preferred, generally cylindrical, shape to
sidewall 9.
Still referring to FIG. 1, air outlet 6 is a circular, axial,
outlet 15. By "axial" in this context, it is meant that a center
line of outlet 15, FIG. 3, extends parallel to a center line or
axis 12, FIG. 3, of housing 3. In the particular instance shown,
the center line of outlet 15 is coaxial with the center line 12 of
housing 3, because the preferred housing sidewall 9 has a circular
cross-section and the outlet 6 is not eccentrically positioned. Of
course, alternate configurations are feasible, but this particular
one is convenient. The reference to outlet 15 being circular, is a
reference to the general shape of the interior air flow
conduit.
Referring to FIG. 3, the sidewall 9 has first and second opposite
ends 16 and 17 respectively. First end 16 is closed by cover 18
having outlet 6 projecting therefrom. Referring to FIG. 3, cover 18
is integral with, and is not separable from, end 16, and, in the
preferred configuration shown cover 18 has at least two, in this
instance at least three, regions or steps of different diameter,
indicated at 18a, 18b and 18c. The corresponding internal diameters
or steps decrease with 18a>18b>18c. The function of these
steps will be understood from further discussions.
Tap 6a, in outlet tube 6, is for attachment of optional pressure or
restriction indicators or other equipment.
For the particular embodiment shown, dust drop tube 7 is adjacent
first end 16.
End 17, FIG. 1, defines an open end, and air cleaner 2 includes
inlet 5 adjacent thereto. The open end 17 in the sidewall 19 is
closed to passage of air therethrough by cover 20.
In general, cover 20 has no aperture therethrough in the end region
20a, and is a removable access or service cover 21 mounted on
sidewall 9 to close end 17. Service cover 21 is periodically opened
or removed, to provide service access to an interior 23, FIG. 3, of
housing 3, for inspection, service or mounting of componentry
contained therein. For the particular embodiment depicted, the
service cover 21 is completely removable from sidewall 9, for
service access to interior 23. The cover 21 can be secured to a
remainder 25 (FIG. 10) of housing 3, in a variety of ways, for
example through the use of latches, bolts or other constructions.
Several, convenient, mounting mechanisms are shown and are
discussed in detail below.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, air cleaner
assembly 2 is depicted in exploded perspective view, so that
certain separable componentry is viewable. Referring to FIG. 2, the
componentry depicted includes: housing section 25 (i.e., the
housing 3 without the cover 20); service cover 21; a removable and
replaceable primary filter element or filter cartridge 30; optional
removable and replaceable secondary safety filter element or
cartridge 31; and, dust evacuator valve 32 (shown in phantom and
not shown removed). Primary cartridge 30 is depicted in side
elevational view in FIG. 6; and, safety cartridge 31 is depicted in
side elevational view in FIG. 11. The dust evacuator valve 32 is
removable, but in normal use of air cleaner 2, once installed valve
32 is not removed unless it becomes damaged.
Still referring to FIG. 2, the air cleaner assembly 2 further
includes a precleaner 35. In general, a precleaner such as
precleaner 35, operates to remove certain particulate material from
an air stream, before the air stream is passed into media of the
primary air filter element or cartridge 30. An advantage from this,
is that it provides for longer operational life of the primary
filter cartridge 30. For the particular arrangement depicted, the
precleaner 35 is secured to the service cover 21, and in normal,
preferred, operation is never separated and indeed is not separable
without causing damage to the cover 20. In an alternate embodiment,
discussed below in connection with FIG. 21, the precleaner is
mounted on, and is secured to, the primary filter element or
cartridge.
Referring to FIG. 5, the precleaner 35 includes: a cyclonic ramp
component 36; and, a generally cylindrical shield component 37;
with the ramp 36 positioned on an outer surface 42 of the shield
37. In the embodiment shown, ramp 36 and shield 37 are integral
with one another, the two being molded together as a single plastic
piece. At end 36a, region 36b behind ramp 36 (i.e., between ramp 36
and end 20a of cover 20) ramp 36 is closed by end 38. Operation of
components 36, 37 (and thus precleaner 35) will in part be
understood by reference to general operation of the air cleaner
assembly 2.
During normal operation, air to be filtered enters air cleaner
assembly 2 through tangential inlet 10, FIG. 1 into space 14, FIG.
3. The space 14 is generally defined as being between inside
surface 41 (of housing sidewall 9), and outside surface 42 (of
shield 37). The entrance into space 14 is preferably into one of
regions 43a, 43b, FIG. 5, where ramp 36 has not progressed away
from end 20a substantially. Because of the preferred tangential
entry, the air flow directed into space 14 is generally directed
into a circular, circumferential or cyclonic flow. For the
particular embodiment shown, and referring to the general view
point of FIG. 1, when looking toward cover 20 from the outside of
air cleaner 2, this flow would be clockwise. Of course the air
cleaner assembly 2 could be configured for an opposite direction of
flow.
Referring again to FIG. 3, upon entering space 14, the air is
directed into the precleaner 35. Cyclonic ramp 36 is positioned to
help impart a spiral or cyclonic moment to the air and dust carried
therein spiraling toward end 16, as the air circles around shield
37. In general the ramp 36 coils around shield 37 less than one
full turn, preferably no more than 340.degree., typically less than
320.degree., for example an amount within the range of 150.degree.
to 280.degree.. A typical shield 37 would project at least 35 mm.
(millimeters) and typically 44 mm. to 170 mm. along the side of the
element cartridge 30. A typical ramp 36 would project at least 5
mm. and typically 7 mm.-20 mm. outwardly from shield 37.
The shield 37 prevents the air, carrying particles, from
immediately impacting the media in cartridge 30, before spiraling
(and thus precleaning) occurs. In general, as a result of the
cyclonic spin, a substantial portion of the dust particles carried
within the air stream will be directed toward inside wall 41 of
housing 15, eventually to be ejected through dust drop tube 7. In a
typical arrangement, dust drop tube 7 would be covered by an
ejector valve 32, shown in phantom in FIGS. 1 and 2. Such ejector
valves are well known. Some examples are described in U.S. Pat. No.
3,429,108, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein
by reference.
In a typical embodiment, the ramp 36 spirals at a rate providing
about 2 mm. to 4 mm. linear movement or distance away from end 43,
per 10.degree. of turn.
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, in general the primary element or
cartridge 30 comprises an extension of media 55 which circumscribes
and defines a central clean air volume 56. For the particular
embodiment depicted, the media 55 is arranged in pleats 55a which
extend longitudinally between ends 57, 58 of the cartridge 30.
Referring again to FIG. 3, after exiting precleaner 35 the air
passes through primary cartridge 30 from upstream side 59 to
downstream side 60, and then enters clean air region 56. The air at
this point is typically sufficiently clean to be passed on through
outlet tube 6, to the engine/air intake of an internal combustion
engine.
As mentioned above, the particular air cleaner assembly 2 depicted,
includes an optional secondary or safety element or cartridge 31,
FIG. 2. The safety element or cartridge 31 comprises media 65
positioned in region 56, FIG. 3, such that air exiting media 55
must pass through media 65 on the way to outlet 6. Media 65 for a
typical application, is not pleated, but rather comprises a sheet
of non-woven fibrous media which circumscribes open central area
66, FIG. 3.
From the above description, general operation of the air cleaner
assembly 2 will be understood to be as follows: 1. Air to be
filtered first enters the assembly 2 through inlet 5. 2. Through a
combination of tangential entry, the circular housing sidewall 9,
shield 37 and the precleaner ramp 36, the air stream is directed
into a cyclonic or spiral flow pattern. This drives some of the
dust material against the inside surface 41 of the housing sidewall
9, providing a precleaning effect. The precleaned dust is
eventually ejected through down tube 7. 3. The air passes through
the media 55 of the primary filter cartridge 30, and is filtered
thereby. 4. If the optional safety or secondary filter cartridge is
used, the filtered air then passes through media 65 of the safety
or secondary filter cartridge 31, into clean air region 66. 5. The
air is then directed axially outwardly from air cleaner 2, through
end cover 18, i.e., through outlet duct 6.
Also, certain general structural features of the preferred air
cleaner assembly 2 are as follows: 1. The access cover 20 is
located at opposite end 17 of the housing 3 from the air flow
outlet tube 6. 2. The inlet 5 is a side entry inlet, and the outlet
6 is an axial airflow outlet. 3. The inlet 5 is located adjacent
end 17 of the housing, and the outlet tube 6 is located adjacent
opposite end 16 of the housing 3. 4. The down tube 7 for the dust
is located adjacent outlet tube 6 and end 16 of the housing. 5.
Precleaner 35 is located adjacent inlet tube 5 at end 17 of the
housing, and thus adjacent cover 20. 6. For the particular
embodiment of FIG. 3, the precleaner 35 is permanently mounted on
cover 20. B. Sealing of the Primary Filter Cartridge 30 within Air
Cleaner 2.
As discussed above, primary filter cartridge 30 is a removable and
replaceable (i.e., serviceable) component. That is, primary filter
cartridge 30 is constructed to be removable for servicing (for
example by replacement). In order to ensure proper operation of air
cleaner assembly 2, it is thus necessary that the primary cartridge
30 be constructed for appropriate sealing within housing 3, once
installed, so that air does not bypass the media 55 during
operation. The air cleaner assembly 2 can be configured to provide
for this seal in a variety of manners.
For example, a radial seal between either an internal portion or
external portion of the primary element 30, around its outlet end,
and another portion of the assembly, could be used. Various types
of radial seal systems, adaptable for air cleaners which include
componentry having certain features as described herein, are shown
for example in PCT Publication WO 89/01818 at 259 and in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,938,804, FIG. 6 at 75; these two references being
incorporated herein by reference. The types of radial seals
depicted in those arrangements, could be adapted for use in a
system as described herein, with appropriate modification. One
radial seal is shown in the alternate embodiment of FIG. 20,
discussed below.
The particular air cleaner assembly 2 depicted, however, uses a
preferred axial seal between the primary filter cartridge 30 and
the remainder of the air cleaner 2, to advantage. The term "axial"
in this context, is meant to refer to a seal which operates upon
sealing pressure in the direction of arrow 68, FIG. 3, i.e.,
generally in a direction parallel to the element and housing
central axis 12.
More specifically, and referring to FIG. 3, end 16 of housing
sidewall 9 is closed by end cover 18, with outlet 6 herein.
Interior surface 69 of end cover 18, around air flow exit aperture
69a, is configured as a sealing surface. That is, it is at this
surface 69 that an axial seal is formed between the primary
cartridge 30 and the housing 3.
Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, end 57 of primary filter cartridge 30
includes an end cap 57a having circular ridge, projection or rib 70
of seal material thereon, generally surrounding open central
airflow exit aperture 71. Seal rib 70, FIG. 3, is pressed against
surface 69, circumscribing aperture 69a, to form the axial seal.
The preferred rib 70 has a somewhat triangular cross-section before
the compression shown in FIG. 3.
The particular arrangement depicted in FIGS. 1-13, uses an
advantageous arrangement to press the rib 70 against surface 69,
forming the axial seal of the primary element 30. This is discussed
in detail in Section IV below, in which a detailed discussion of
the primary filter cartridge 30 is provided.
In general, because an inside radial seal of the type described in
PCT Publication WO 89/01818 is not used in the preferred air
cleaner assembly 2, housing 3 can be made free of any internally,
axially, projecting radial seal tubes or cylindrical constructions,
at end 16, if desired. Also, because primary filter cartridge 30 is
free of any outer radial seals of the type described in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,938,804 at 75, the housing sidewall 9 for the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 3 can be made free of any otherwise necessary
annular sealing surface for an outer perimeter radial seal.
C. Sealing of the Optional Safety Cartridge 31.
Referring to FIG. 2, safety element or cartridge 31 includes first
and second opposite ends, 80-81. First end 80 is the end inserted
toward outlet 6, during assembly. End 80 includes mounted adjacent
thereto and spaced therefrom, o-Ring 84. Referring to FIG. 3, when
mounted in assembly 2, end 80 is pushed into annular cylindrical
projection 85 of end cover 18 with o-Ring 84 providing a seal
between the cartridge 31 and an annular, inside surface of end 18,
specifically section 18c. The seal provided by o-ring 84 ensures
that an undesired level of air does not go through outlet 6 without
passage through safety element cartridge 31. It is noted that the
seal provided by o-ring 84 is typically not critical, since the
seal of primary filter cartridge 30 primarily protects the engine
from undesired (unfiltered) air flow.
The particular mechanism by which secondary or safety cartridge 31
is secured in position, and other features of secondary cartridge
31, are described below in Section VI.
D. Primary Filter Cartridge 30.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 6, in which primary filter
cartridge 30 is depicted in side elevational view. In general, the
filter cartridge 30 comprises: a media and seal support structure
90; media 55; and, first and second opposite end caps 92 and 93. In
general, end cap 92 is positioned at end 57 of primary element 30;
and, end cap 93 is positioned at end 58. The media 55 extends
completely between the end caps 92, 93. For the particular
embodiment shown support 90 also extends completely between the end
caps 92, 93, although in some alternate embodiments, such extension
might not be complete.
The particular preferred primary filter element or cartridge 30
depicted in FIG. 6, and generally used in air cleaner 2, does not
have an inner filter liner or support, extending completely between
ends 57, 58, mounted as an inseparable part of cartridge 30.
Rather, inner support along substantially the complete length of
media 55 (except, for example, at one or both of the potted ends),
is provided, optionally, by structure not mounted on and not
provided as an inseparable part of, the primary cartridge 30, as
described below. It will be preferred that some inner support to
the media is provided, either as part of cartridge 30 or as a
separate component, preferably as a separate component.
In general, end 57 is an open end, including aperture 71 therein
for exit flow of air during a filtering operation. On the other
hand, end 58 is a closed end, meaning that air cannot pass through
end 58 covered by end cap 93, during normal operation. Features
which provide for this in a preferred manner will be understood
from the following discussions.
The media and seal support structure 90 is depicted in FIG. 8. The
support structure 90 is shown in FIG. 8, without media or end caps
thereon. Thus, support structure 90 depicted in FIG. 8 is a
component used to make cartridge 30, FIG. 6. In the cartridge 30,
the support structure 90 is generally not separable or removable,
without causing damage to the cartridge 30.
From a review of FIGS. 1-3 and 8, it will be apparent that the
preferred cartridge 30 is a "non-continuously threaded" cartridge.
By this it is meant that in the preferred embodiments there are no
continuous threads on any portion of the cartridge 30, for
threadably mounting, securing or attaching the cartridge (for
example upon continuous rotation or through 360.degree. or more of
required rotation) to any portion of the air cleaner 2.
Referring to FIG. 8, the support structure 90 includes a first end
100 and a second end 101. First end 100 generally defines a
circular opening 102 free of framework therein. The circular
opening 102 (in the completed element 30 as aperture 71), provides
for an exit region (or outlet) for filtered air. In general, end
cap 92 (FIG. 6), is molded onto end 100 to provide closure to media
55 at this end. In a typical preferred embodiment, the end cap 92
also forms seal rib 70 and air outlet aperture 71. Typically, to
accomplish this, end cap 92 is formed from an appropriately
compressible polymeric material, such as a foamed polyurethane as
described below.
Referring to FIG. 3, preferably seal rib 70 is positioned either
axially aligned with edge 100a of support 90, or is positioned
radially internally from overlap with edge 100a. Typically it will
be positioned radially inwardly from edge 100a, with its peak no
more than about 10 mm. internally of edge 100a. As a result, rib 70
is generally driven against surface 69, to form a seal, by either
end 100a of support 90, or pleat ends of media 55, or both.
Referring to FIG. 8, support structure 90 includes, adjacent end
100, shield 105. Shield 105 is generally a portion of support
structure 90 which is imperforate or impermeable to air flow
therethrough. The shield 105 is generally sized, FIG. 3, to overlap
aperture 7a where dust drop tube 7 encounters a remainder of
sidewall 9. This inhibits dust, as it flows to the tube 7a, from
directly impinging the media 55 in an undesirable manner, in this
region. Air can get under shield 105 at edge 105a, to encounter
media 55 in this region (FIG. 3).
Attention is now directed to FIG. 6. In FIG. 6, in phantom, an
optional axially projecting ring or rib 105b is depicted. Such a
ring 105b would be a continuous ring projecting axially outwardly,
as it circumscribes shield 105. Typically and preferably ring 105b
is integral with a remainder of shield 105. The optional ring 105b
would preferably be positioned adjacent to, but spaced from,
portions of mounting structure 129 described below, to inhibit
undesired levels of dust transport into that mounting structure
129. This will be described in greater detail below.
For the particular embodiment shown, the support 90 extends
completely between ends 100 and 101; and, between shield 105 and
end 101, FIG. 8, support 90 includes a perforate or open section
106. By this it is meant that in region 106, support 90 includes
framework 107 that leaves substantial open areas 108 for passage of
air there through, to encounter media. Preferably in this region
106, the framework 107 is at least 50% open, and more preferably at
least 70% open. By this, it is meant that of the total area of
region 106, at least 50% and more preferably at least 70% is
occupied by aperture or opening, as opposed to solid framework.
Preferably the imperforate shield 105 occupies at least 10% but
does not occupy more than 40% percent, of the total extension
(length) of support 90 between end 100 and end 101. Preferably the
perforate section 106 occupies at least 20%, more preferably at
least 60%, of a total axial length of support 90.
Still referring to FIG. 8, the preferred framework 107 depicted
comprises a plurality of radially spaced, axial ribs 109, in this
instance 10 equally radially spaced such ribs, typically 6-14 such
ribs, cross connected by a circumferentially, spiral, radial rib
structure 109a, in this instance two continuous spirals 109b
extending from approximately points 109c (separated radially by
about) 180.degree. adjacent end 101, to points 109d (separated
radially by about 180.degree.) adjacent shield 105, each with a
total radial extension of about 720.degree.. Advantages from a
spiral rib structure 109a, as opposed to a series of parallel
radial ribs, relate to provision of resistance to distortion of
framework 107 when placed under radial stress during sealing an
unsealing of cartridge 30. An alternate way to describe the spiral
turn of radial ribs 109, is that they angle, from being
perpendicular to central axis 12, FIG. 3, by at least about
10.degree., and typically an angle within the range of 15.degree.
to 45.degree.. This can alternatively be stated to be the acute
angle B, FIG. 6.
Attention is now directed toward end 101, FIG. 8. In general, end
101 includes end framework 110 extending there across, in contrast
to opening 102 at end 100. Framework 110 does not completely close
end 101, but rather includes the following general features:
central, impermeable region 111; and, annular open framework
112.
Still referring to FIG. 8, annular open framework 112 generally
includes spokes 113 (in this instance 8 spokes, typically 3-11
spokes) extending between impermeable region 111 and end 101; and,
structural, circular, rib 114 interconnecting the spokes 113.
Openings 115 defined by structure 112, help provide for preferred
manufacture of primary element 30, as next described.
During a preferred manufacture of primary element 30, a pre-made,
molded plastic, component comprising support 90 would be provided.
Pleated media would be put into support 90, through opening 102.
The pleated media would be inserted sufficiently far, for an end of
the media to rest upon framework 112. Recessed surface 111a in
region 111 projects with the media around it, toward end 102 to
define an annular media receiving trough 116 therearound, to help
keep the inserted end of the media in a round shape.
End 101 of the framework 90 could then be placed into a mold,
including a curable polymeric material. The polymeric material will
flow through the framework 112, into the ends of the media pleats,
to form a potting, as shown at end cap 93, FIG. 6. This will seal
ends of the pleats closed, secure the media in place, and close
openings 115. In general, the potting material and mold depth will
have been selected so as to not to have the potting material reach
surface 111a of recessed region 111. A typical depth of recess for
surface 111a from end 101 would be at least about 3 mm. and usually
not more than 7 mm., for example 4-5 mm.
Attention is directed to FIG. 4, in which an end cap 93 formed by
such a process is depicted. The potting material is generally
indicated at 120. It can be seen that although region 111 has not
been covered by the potting material 120, the remaining framework
112 has been. For the particular arrangements shown in FIG. 4, the
molded potting material 120 is shown with annular, radially spaced,
depressions 121 resulting from mold standoffs.
End cap 93, then, is a composite, closed, end cap 58, with the
composite generally comprising: potting material 120 forming an
annular, imperforate, ring; and, exposed surface 111 which forms a
central imperforate surface in the end cap 93.
Manufacture of the element 30 could be completed, by inserting end
100 into a second mold, and molding end cap 92 thereon. The media
55 would be prevented from dropping through aperture 102, during
insertion into the second mold, since it would have been anchored
in place to framework 112 by the first molding process.
The primary filter cartridge 30 of the preferred embodiment
includes thereon structure to provide for securement of the
cartridge 30 in place and assembly 2, during use. For the
particular preferred construction illustrated, the mounting
structure is provided as an integral part of support 90; however
alternatives are possible. The structure can be understood, in
part, by review of the support 90, FIG. 8.
In FIG. 8, mounting structure 129 providing for securing cartridge
30 with seal material 70, (FIG. 3) compressed against surface 69,
FIG. 3, is depicted. The particular mounting structure 129
depicted, is part of a non-continuously threaded, rotation
engagement mechanism 129a, which is operated to press seal material
70 against surface 69 in part upon a rotational moment imparted
filter cartridge 30. It is this operation of providing radial twist
to the cartridge 30, during locking and mounting, which is
facilitated by providing support 90 with spiral construction 109a.
The preferred arrangement shown is configured so that a rotational
motion of no more than 50.degree., preferably no more than
30.degree., most preferably 20.degree. or less, is all that is
necessary to go from an unlocked position to a locked position.
This will be apparent from the following descriptions.
The engagement structure 129a in general operates with a portion of
cartridge 30 engaging, upon rotation, a portion on the housing
section 25. An example of a particular interaction will be
understood by reviewing FIG. 8, specifically radially outwardly
projecting ring 130, which operates as mounting structure 129 on
cartridge 30.
Radially projecting ring 130, in the embodiment shown, is a
segmented ring 131. The particular embodiment shown comprises four
identical, evenly spaced, segments 131a; however alternatives are
possible. In FIG. 5, three of the segments 132, 133 and 134 are
viewable. The fourth segment 135 would be positioned as shown in
FIG. 5. All four are viewable in FIG. 7. Each segment 131a projects
radially outwardly, from an immediately adjacent portion of support
90, by at least 2.5 mm., typically at least 3.5 mm.
Referring to FIG. 8, segmented ring 131, has a series of radially
spaced gaps 136 therein. The gaps 136 are positioned between the
segments 132-135 of the segmented ring 131. The gaps 136 are
appropriately sized to allow at least selected portions of ring 131
to be pushed (axially) past structural features in the housing 9,
for rotational engagement as discussed below. Each gap 136 is
preferably at least 6 mm. wide, typically at least 7 mm. wide. Gaps
on the order of 20 mm.-40 mm. are useable, for example.
Referring to FIG. 8, each ring segment 131a (such as segment 133),
includes first and second opposite ends 140 and 141. End 141 is
typically a blunt end; and, end 140 comprises a short segment at
142 axially offset (from a remainder 143 of the segment 131) toward
end 100. A result is formation of a receiving area 145 along a
surface 146 of segment 142 facing toward end 101 (or away from end
100). Receiving area 145 is positioned to engage (upon radial
receipt) structure in the housing 9, discussed below, to ensure
appropriate sealing between the primary element 30 and the housing
9, during operation. It is noted that tip 147 of section 140 comes
to a rounded point, with surface 145 being a cam surface and
recessing from tip 147 toward end 101 in extension toward section
143. It is also noted that each of the ring segments 132-135 is
oriented with its offset section corresponding to section 142, FIG.
8, on one side of a gap 136, and with a blunt end, corresponding to
end 141 of the next adjacent ring segment, positioned on the other
side of the corresponding gap 136. In the instance shown, and from
the end view from end 101, each segment 131 "points" in clockwise
arc, with end 141 being considered the front end.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 10. In FIG. 10 a cross-sectional
view of portion 25 of the housing 9 is depicted. In FIG. 10, holder
structure 150 is shown. From FIGS. 9 and 10, it will be apparent
that for the particular embodiment shown there are four, evenly
spaced, holder structures 150, one corresponding to each gap 136,
in ring 130.
Each holder structure 150 is positioned adjacent an inside surface
41 of housing 9 at region adjacent section 18b (at a joint area
between sections 18a and 18b) of the housing sidewall 9. Each
holder structure 150 is sized to pass through a gap 136, FIG. 8;
further, surface 151, which is directed toward outlet 6, is shaped
as a cam to slant toward outlet 6 in recess from tip 150a. Finally,
holder 150 includes end stop 152 thereon at an end opposite tip
150a.
From the viewpoint of FIG. 9, i.e., looking toward end 17, each of
the holders "points" counter-clockwise, if it is assumed that the
tip 150a is the front of each holder and that the stop 152 is the
back end. Pointing this direction facilitates engagement with ring
segment 131, which, as characterized above, points in an opposite
direction. It is noted that if the ring segments 131 are configured
to point counter-clockwise, then the holders 150 could be directed
to point clockwise. (These and other alternative arrangements will
be understood from the following description of operation.)
Although alternatives are possible, in the particular arrangement
shown, the housing 3 would include four holders corresponding to
holder 150, evenly radially spaced around an interior of surface
section 18b, each pointing in the same direction. Again, the four
holders 150 would generally correspond with the four gaps 136
between the four ring segments, 132-135.
Operational engagement between the primary filter cartridge 30 and
the housing 3, to cause sealing between gasket 70 and surface 69
should now be apparent. In general, cartridge 30 would be inserted
into the open housing 25 through open end 17, FIG. 10. The end of
the element 30 inserted first, would be end 57 FIG. 6. The
cartridge 30 would continue to be pushed in, with an appropriate
radial orientation such that holders 150 can pass through gaps 136.
This will allow gasket 70 to encounter and be pressed against
surface 69, FIGS. 3 and 10. Once this extent of insertion is
reached, the cartridge 30 would be rotated, (for the particular
arrangement depicted clockwise), so that portions 142 of each ring
segment would be aligned over surface 151 of each holder 150. The
surface 145 of each section 142 and surface 151 of each holder 150,
i.e., the engaging surfaces, would be shaped and sized to cause a
further biasing or camming to drive cartridge 30 against surface 69
preferably with compression of rib 70, to ensure appropriate
compression of the gasket material 70 to form a seal. Rotation
would preferably be designed to occur until tip 147 engages stop
152.
As a result of the rotational interlock, the cartridge 30 cannot
back away from surface 69 without being rotated, due to the holders
150 being positioned against surfaces 146.
Referring to FIG. 10, in general the arc length between tip 150a
and stop 152, represents the rotational arc between full locking
and fully unlocking of the cartridge 30. Typically, the
construction will be such that the arc is no more than 70.degree.,
typically no more than 50.degree., and for the particular
arrangement of FIG. 10, preferably no more than 40.degree.. Most
preferably, for the arrangement of FIG. 10, it is no more than
30.degree.. Indeed, for the particular arrangement shown, this arc
is on the order of only about 10.degree. to 25.degree..
From the above, it will be apparent for the particular preferred
arrangement shown, the primary filter cartridge 30 includes no
inner support structure extending between ends 57, 58, along an
inside surface of the media 55. This is advantageous, for
manufacture and assembly. When the cartridge 30 is positioned for
use, in an air cleaner, inner support to the media 55 is provided
by structure already positioned within the housing 3.
More specifically, internal support for the media 55 is provided by
a separate support structure 160, FIG. 2 for example a portion of
the secondary or safety element or cartridge 31. In the event that
an optional secondary or safety element 31 is not used with the
system, a support structure similar to structure 160, but not
having media associated therewith as a secondary filter, can be
used to support media 55 along its inside.
Attention is again directed to the optional rib 105b shown in FIG.
6. Such a rib 105b, in use, would generally be positioned spaced
axially toward end 93 from mounting structure 129, specifically
axially toward end 93 from segment and ring 131. Preferably the
spacing the optional rib 105b from the segmented ring 131, in this
direction, would be by no more than 10 mm., and preferably
substantially less. The continuous ring 105b would generally
protect segmented ring 131 from being undesirably exposed to dust,
during use.
In some alternate application of the described principles, it may
be desirable to have framework 90 not extend continuously from end
100 to end 101; but rather to have the support 90 include shield
105, without framework from end 101; and, to have at opposite end
101 appropriate structure (such as impermeable region 111 and
annual open framework 112), for forming a preferred composite end
cap.
E. The End Cover 20.
As indicated previously, the end cover 20 is a service cover 21
that can be removed from the remainder of the housing 25 to allow
service access to the interior 23 of the housing.
For the particular arrangement shown, the end cover 20 has no air
flow aperture extending therethrough. That is, it has an outside
surface 20a, FIG. 1 and an inside center surface 20b, FIG. 5, with
no aperture or air flow tube extending therethrough. For this
reason, it can be referred to as a "closed" or "completely closed"
end cover 20.
Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, assembly 2 includes a mounting and
locking mechanism 170, to secure the cover 21 onto the remainder 25
of the housing sidewall 9. In general the mounting and locking
mechanism 170 comprises a plurality of flexible tabs mounted on one
of the housing sidewall 9 and cover 20, and a plurality of
engageable recesses mounted on the other one of the housing
sidewall 9 and cover 20. For the particular arrangement shown, the
mounting and locking mechanism 170 generally comprises a plurality
of flexible tabs 171, on end cover 21, each of which includes a
radially projecting tongue 172, FIG. 4, thereon. For the particular
arrangement shown, the mounting mechanism 170 comprises two tabs
171a, 171b, radially spaced 180.degree. apart, around the
circumference of cover 21. The housing and 17 includes a pair of
recesses or slots 175, FIG. 1, therein, for receipt of tongues 172,
when the service cover 21 is mounted.
Operation, then, is as follows: referring to FIG. 1, in order to
remove service cover 21 from the remainder of housing 3, tabs 171
would be biased toward one another. This would move the projecting
tongues 172 (FIG. 4) out of slots 175, releasing the cover 21 for
movement relative to the housing sidewall 9. Insertion would be a
reverse operation. Particular useable materials for formation of
the cover 21, to provide flexible tabs 171, are discussed below. If
the tongues 172 are provided with appropriately cammed surfaces on
an end directed toward remainder 25 of the housing, when the cover
20 is pressed in place, it will not be necessary to bias the tabs
171 by hand during mounting, but rather the cams would cause the
biasing or snap fit mounting as the cover 20 is pressed in
place.
An advantage to the particular mounting and locking mechanism 170
described, it is that it comprises features integral with cover 20
and housing 9, and does not require the attachment of any
additional mechanisms such as latches, hooks, etc., for operation,
after cover 20 is molded.
For the particular mounting system involved, only two tabs 171 and
slots 175 are used; and, each tab 171 can engage each one of slots
175. As a result, as thus far described the cover 21 could be
mounted in two rotational orientations relative to sidewall 9.
However, if this were possible for the particular embodiment
depicted, the cover 20 could be mounted such that the orientation
between the inlet 5 and the ramp 36 is not appropriate. To ensure
that the cover 20 is only mountable in a single rotational
position, relative to a remainder of the housing 25, an indexing
arrangement can be provided. Specifically a slot and key
arrangement can be used, in which one member (slot or key) is
positioned on the cover; and another member (key or slot) is on the
housing sidewall 9. The two members would be positioned so that the
cover can only fit (slot engage key) when it is rotated to a
specific pre-set orientation.
An example as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 15, in which a
cover 700 is shown mounted on a sidewall 701, with a key or pin 702
on the cover 100 received within a slot 703 on the sidewall 701.
Cover 700 could only be properly mounted, if the key or pin 702 is
aligned with the slot 703. Thus, the slot and key arrangement 705
depicted in FIG. 15 ensures that the cover 700 is appropriately
rotationally mounted relative to the housing sidewall 701, for
proper operation.
Referring again to FIG. 1, an optional handle construction 710 is
shown, in phantom, on cover 20. If desired, the tabs 171 and slots
175 could be configured such that under a hand (pulling) force
applied to handle 710, (i.e., under pulling of the handle 710), the
cover 20 could be released from its secure position without the
need to manually press tabs 171 toward one another. The handle 710
could be configured in a variety of forms. The particular handle
710 shown includes a removable or replaceable cross piece 711
extending between two mounting ears 712, 713. The ears 712, 713
could be molded integrally with a remainder of cover 20.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 5, for detail within shield 37 on
cover 20. In particular, in a portion 178 inside of shield 37 which
will be adjacent end 58 in use, cover 20 includes an internal ring
179 of smaller inside diameter than a remainder 179a of shield 37.
The ring 179a, FIG. 3, is sized to receive end 58 therein with
little or no space therebetween in use. This will help securely
support the end 58 of primary cartridge 30, along end cap 93, i.e.,
at an end of cartridge 30 remote from outlet 6.
Referring to FIG. 6, the primary filter cartridge 30 is supported
at end 57, within the housing 3 (FIG. 3), by a combination of: the
mounting structure 129; and, end cap 92.
Referring to FIG. 4, attention is now directed to an engagement
arrangement, for providing a preferred engagement between primary
element 30 and cover 20. In particular, and referring to FIG. 4,
impermeable region 111, in primary filter cartridge 30, includes
recessed surface 111a in the pre-form comprising a portion of
framework 90, and includes centrally positioned in surface 111a, a
first member 183 of a projection/receiver arrangement 184. In
particular, surface 111a includes receiver 185. Preferably, the
receiver 185 is non-circular, for reasons discussed below. The
particular receiver 185 depicted for the embodiment shown in FIG.
4, is an X-shaped (or "+" shaped) receiver 186 with a 90.degree.
angle between center lines of each pair of adjacent arms of the
X-shape, although a variety of alternate shapes can be used. A
particular advantage resulting from the X-shape to the receiver
186, is discussed below with respect to indexing and symmetry. The
term "pre-form" in the context of this paragraph, refers to a
structural component of the end cap made prior to potting into the
end cap material.
Further, as shown at FIG. 5, cover 20 includes, along the inside
surface 190 thereof, a second member 187 of the projection/receiver
arrangement 184, in this instance a centrally positioned projection
191. Again, preferably projection 191 is non-round and in this
instance is an X-shaped projection 192, with a 90.degree. angle
between a center line of each pair of adjacent arms of the X-shape.
The projection 192 is sized and configured to project, when
appropriately aligned, into receiver 185. When the air cleaner 2 is
assembled, FIG. 3, projection 191 will protrude into receiver 185.
In part because the projection 192 and receiver 186 are both
non-round, the cartridge 30 is prevented from rotating, in use, by
the projection/receiver arrangement 184, when the air cleaner end
cover 20 is locked in position on housing 3.
In particular, it is important that during use, the element 30 not
inadvertently rotate relative to the housing 3, to ensure that the
seal between gasket material 70 and surface 69 is maintained. That
is, relative rotation between element 30 and surface 69 would tend
to disengage the interaction between holders 150 and ring segments
131. To inhibit rotational movement of the element 30 relative to
the remainder of the housing 3, during assembly and use, projection
191 and receiver 185 are shaped, to engage upon rotation and
inhibit a sufficient relative rotational movement between the
cartridge 30 and a remainder of air cleaner 25, to allow the
cartridge to unseal. The particular shape shown for each is an
X-shape. However, with respect to this general function, all that
is generally required is that the projection 191 and the receiver
185 not be circular, but rather each be non-circular and have a
portion that interacts with the other and inhibits rotational
movement of one relative to the other.
The particular use of a four armed cross or X-shape (or +-shape;
i.e., "plus shape") for each member, relates to an indexing and
symmetry function. In particular, ring 131 of primary filter
cartridge 30 includes a specific number (N) of radially spaced gaps
136. As a result of this configuration, and also the same number
(N) of holders 150 and the same number (N) of segments 131,
cartridge 30 can be positioned within housing 3, at N specific
radial orientations. When N is the number 4, and the four positions
are 90.degree. apart, each one of these N radial orientations
corresponds to an arm 193 of projection 191. Since there are a
total of four gaps 136, four holders 150 and four sections 131, the
particular projection 191 depicted is an X-shape 192 with four arms
193 each extending at 90.degree. relative to adjacent arms. Of
course, receiver 185, FIG. 4, is similarly constructed. Thus, the
element can be mounted in four rotational positions.
Such a symmetry between a number of possible rotational positions
and engagements, between the primary cartridge 30 and the remainder
of the housing 3, will generally be referred to as a primary
cartridge/housing rotational symmetry. For the particular
embodiment shown, the primary cartridge/housing rotational symmetry
is four fold, meaning four rotational orientations, but not more,
are possible. Of course, alternatives are possible; however,
preferably at least two possible rotational positions are
provided.
The extent to which the projection member 191 extends into the
recess or receiver 185 (of the preform), of the projection/receiver
interlock arrangement 184, is not critical, as long as the extent
of projection is enough to inhibit rotation. It is anticipated that
in general constructions will be made such that the amount of
projection into the receiver 185 from surface 111a will be at least
3 mm., typically at least 5 mm., and generally on the order of 6
mm. to 10 mm.
Of course the first member of the projection receiver arrangement
183, could be a projection as opposed to a receiver, with the
second member being the receiver instead of the projection. That
is, the projection/receiver arrangement 184 could be configured
with a projection extending axially outwardly from surface 111a,
toward cover 20, to be received within a receiver on end cover 20.
The particular arrangement depicted, however, with receiver 185 on
the cartridge 30, and the projection 191 on the cover 20, is
preferred.
Again, it is noted that impermeable end 111 and framework 112 (FIG.
8) are preferably formed as a pre-form, before a remainder of end
cap 93, FIG. 6, is molded.
Referring to FIG. 3, it is also noted that the preferred cover 20
is circumscribed by end 17 of housing sidewall 9, when the cover 20
is properly mounted; and, the cover 20 includes no portion which
slides over (or around) region 17a on an outside surface of end 17
of sidewall 9. A cover 20 configured in this manner, will sometimes
be referred to by the following characterizations: "cover 20 is
positioned circumscribed by a portion of housing 9, when mounted,
and cover 20 includes no portion which circumscribes housing 9,
when mounted," or by variants thereof. Alternative arrangements for
mounting the cover 20, are described below.
F. The Optional Safety Element 31.
Attention is directed to FIGS. 11-13, with respect to the optional
safety element 31. In general the safety element 31, FIG. 13,
comprises: support 160; inner support 201; media 65; and, o-ring
84. The support 160 generally extends between first end 80 and
second end 81. The first end 80 is the end first inserted into the
housing interior 23, during mounting. End 80 includes o-ring 84
mounted spaced therefrom but adjacent thereto, and positioned in
o-ring receiver 203. For the particular embodiment shown, end 80
includes, immediately adjacent thereto, impermeable ring surface
205 with mounting slots 206 therein. The mounting slots 206 are
generally L-shaped (or J or hook shaped), FIG. 12, and are
positioned to engage posts 210 within housing 3, FIG. 9, upon an
appropriate engagement and twist. The posts 210 project radially
inwardly. (An alternate embodiment is described below which does
not use a slot 206/post 210 engagement mechanism.)
For the particular arrangement shown in FIGS. 11-13, there are two
slots 206 and two posts 210, each member of each pair being
positioned rotated 180.degree. from the other around an inside of
housing 3. The posts 210 are on surface 18c. Thus, outer support
160 is configured to have two rotational positions relative to the
housing 3, during installation. The symmetry between support 160
and the housing 3 will generally be referred to as support
160/housing symmetry or by variants thereof. Symmetry with two
possible positions, but not more, will be referred to as two-fold
support 160/housing symmetry.
Referring again to FIG. 13, support 160 comprises framework 211
with apertures 212 therein. Preferably support 160 is at least 50%
open and more preferably at least 70% open, in extension between
end 80 and end 81. In general use, safety cartridge 31 does not
have a substantial twisting and pressure applied thereto, simply to
operate interaction between slots 206 and posts 210. That is, the
rotation to operate interaction between posts 210 and slots 206 is
relatively easy. Thus, the support framework 211 does not have
spiral radial extensions, but rather uses parallel hoops 213 (in
this instance five hoops) interconnecting axial extensions 214.
End 80 generally defines an open circular interior 80a, through
which air can pass during use. End 81, on the other hand, is closed
by cover 215. For the particular embodiment shown, cover 215
includes a recessed center 216, configured as described below.
For the particular safety element depicted in FIGS. 11-13, the
media 65 comprises a wrap or similar construction of non-pleated,
non-woven, material. It is positioned generally between inner
support 201 and support 160. Referring to FIG. 13, the inner
support 201 is generally framework having first and second opposite
ends 222, 223, with an open or porous support structure 229
extending therebetween. Preferably the porous structure 229 is at
least 50% open and more preferably at least 70% open, over this
extension. For the particular arrangement shown the support
structure 229 is a series of radially spaced axial extensions 229a
supported by parallel, spaced, hoops 229b, in this instance five
hoops, not counting end 229c.
For the particular arrangement shown, end 222 of inner support 201
defines an open circular opening 222a, for passage of air
therethrough during use; whereas end 223 is closed by end cover
225. The preferred end cover 225 depicted, includes a recessed
center portion 226.
The particular components 160, 201 depicted in FIG. 13, are
configured for engagement. In particular, media 65 can be
positioned around an outer surface 201a of inner support 201. This
assembly could then be projected into an interior 160a of support
160, until end cover 225 engages end cover 215, FIG. 12.
For the particular arrangement shown, cover 215 includes a pair of
apertures 230 therein, sized and shaped to receive posts 231, on
cover 225, for an interlocking engagement. Interference (snap) fit,
heat staking or other construction methods can alternatively be
used. Preferably in the immediate area where the components 160,
701 directly engage for interlock, there is no media 65 positioned
between them.
It is noted that cover 215 is sized and recessed for a telescoping
fit or projecting fit, into a recess 225a defined by cover 225.
This, in part, accommodates recess 216a in support 60 which in turn
accommodates the projection/receiver arrangement 184, when air
cleaner 2 is assembled, FIG. 3.
Attention is still directed to FIG. 3, with respect to complete
assembly. It is noted that recess 185 of the primary filter
cartridge 30 projects (in the preferred arrangement shown)
partially into recess 216a defined by the cover 215. As a result,
each of the primary element 30 and the safety element 31 are
inhibited from coming loose and moving in a direction toward cover
20, during assembly and use.
In those instances in which it is desirable not to utilize optional
secondary or safety filter 31, it may be desirable simply to
install support 160 with no media 65 or support 201 associated
therewith, into housing 3. The support 160 would still operate,
then, as inner support for the primary filter cartridge 30.
In general, the apertures 230 and posts 231, FIG. 13, can be viewed
as a projection/receiver arrangement 233, FIG. 12, for the safety
element cartridge 31. The projection/receiver arrangement 233 could
be configured, alternatively, with the projection on the outer
support 160 received within receivers on the inner support 201, or
in further alternate arrangements, if desired. In general terms,
then, the inner support 160 includes a first member of
projection/receiver arrangement 233, and the inner support 201
includes a second member of such an arrangement.
G. The Outer Surface Shape of the Components 30, 31.
Referring to FIG. 6, it is noted that the primary element 30 has an
outer surface shape, which is generally conical. More specifically,
region 240, FIG. 6, of outer support 90 is a wide end and has a
first diameter D1, and region 241 is a narrow end and has second
diameter D2 with: (a) D1 greater than D2; and (b) a dimensional
decrease in cross-sectional diameter being generally even in
extension between points 240 and 241.
Typically and preferably diameter D1, a largest diameter adjacent
end 57, is at least 10% larger than diameter D2, a diameter
adjacent a smallest end 58. Typically and preferably the diameter
D1 is at least 10 mm. larger than the diameter D2. Such a shape may
sometimes be referred to as frusto-conical, since the conical shape
does not taper to a point.
This generally conical shape, which includes shield region 105 and
open region 106, provides for advantage. First, the narrow end at
241, allows for an outside diameter that accommodates some of the
space taken by the ramp 36 and shield 37 of the precleaner 35,
without a larger diameter being needed for air cleaner housing
sidewall 9. On the other hand, the larger diameter D1 at region 240
allows for a relatively large exit aperture 102 and thus reduction
in restriction to exit air flow while maintaining a relatively
large amount of media 55. Also, referring to FIG. 3, the increase
in diameter of shield section 105 in extension between points 242
and 243, helps direct dust or other particles into aperture 7a of
down tube 7.
In general, referring to FIG. 12, the particular preferred safety
filter cartridge 31 depicted has an analogous conical shape with a
diameter D3 at region 250 greater than diameter D4 at region 251
and an even taper and decrease in diameter therebetween. This will
ensure that support member 160 of the safety filter cartridge 31 is
positioned adjacent internal pleat tips of media 55 in cartridge
30, for support there along.
H. Jointed Housing Construction.
Attention is directed to FIG. 1. In particular, the housing 3
depicted has a sidewall 9 which is a segmented sidewall 260. By
"segmented" in this context, it is meant that the sidewall 9
includes at least two sections 261, 262 which are not formed
integrally with one another, in a single molding, but rather which
are separately made and are mechanically secured along a joint or
seam 263, to form sidewall 9.
For the particular arrangement shown, the segmented housing 260
includes, in first section 261, the following: end 16; outlet tube
6; and, down tube 7. In segment 262, the housing 260 includes:
inlet tube 5; and, end 17 for mounting cover 20.
Engagement between segments 261 and 262, at joint 263, is provided
through an interlock mechanism 270. In general the interlock
mechanism 270 includes a plurality of projections 271; and, a
plurality of receivers 272, in this instance flexible latches or
u-shaped hoops 273. The hoops 273 are sized to snugly snap fit over
the posts 271, when section 262 is pressed toward section 261. For
the particular arrangement shown, each of the posts or projections
271 is generally rectangularly shaped and each of the latches or
hoops 273 has a similarly shaped aperture therein, to facilitate
snug fit.
For the particular arrangement shown, the projections 271 are
evenly radially spaced around outer surface 272 of segment 261;
and, the flexible latches or hoops 273 are evenly radially spaced
around outer surface 274 of section 262. Alternate constructions
are of course possible. For example, the specific locations could
be reversed. The particular arrangement shown, however, is
preferred.
For the arrangement shown, the central aperture of each latch or
hoop 273 has a perimeter size of about 12 mm. wide, with the post
or projections 271 having a similar width. Each post 271 has a
length of about 11 mm., with a cam shape from tip 271a to sharp
edge 271b, FIG. 10.
Referring to FIG. 1, for the particular arrangement depicted,
section 261 includes an enlarged (in diameter) rim section 280
adjacent end 281, to receive a portion of surface 274 therein, and
to circumscribe that portion, during assembly. This is also shown
in FIG. 10.
In a preferred arrangement, at least six radially spaced posts 271,
and six radially spaced latches 273, are used. Typically and
preferably the number of each will be about eight to fourteen.
Advantages from the segmented housing construction will be
understood by reference to FIG. 1. In particular, segment 261 will
be mounted or oriented, on a vehicle, such that drop tube 7 is
pointed generally downwardly. This facilitates operation of dust
evacuation through evacuator valve 32.
The inlet tube 5 will generally need to be directed, for various
equipment, toward a preferred location for an inlet tube to be
connected. For different vehicles, it may be desirable to have a
different orientation (radially) between the center line 11 or
direction of tube 5, and tube 7 from that shown in FIG. 1. The
segmented housing allows for section 262 to be mounted on section
261, in at least 2 and preferably more selected rotational
orientations.
The particular segmented housing 260 depicted in FIG. 1, is
organized to permit four possible rotational orientations, each
90.degree. spaced from one another. Indexing between the four
arrangements is provided by indexing arrangement 290. In general,
the indexing arrangement 290 comprises a rib/detent arrangement in
which ribs are used in one member of the two housing pieces, and
detents are used on another member of the two housing pieces, to
index line for joining.
The indexing arrangement 290 for the arrangement shown, comprises
four ribs 291 which extend axially and project radially outwardly
from surface 274, each of which engage an associated detent or
receiver 292 in section 272 of segment 261. Four evenly spaced
interference fitting ribs and detents, index four possible
rotational orientations of the segment 262 relative to segment 261,
for sliding engagement and activation of the snap fit locking
mechanism 270.
In general, the snap fit locking mechanism 270 should be selected
so as to make disconnection relatively difficult. This is because
it is not anticipated that, typically, once assembled and
installed, air cleaner 2 would be reconfigured for a different
rotational relationship between segment 262 and segment 261.
Another possibility allowed or accommodated by a segmented housing
260, is having a single mold for segment 261, while having
alternate molds for segment 262, for example to vary overall
housing axial length or to accommodate, in a custom manner, a
different cartridge 30.
Of course the segmented housing is optional. In FIG. 14, there is
depicted a housing 300 which is not segmented. The housing 300 may
be in accord with the description given about for FIGS. 1-13,
except for the absence of the segmented housing.
I. Selected Alternate Arrangements.
1. An Alternate Mounting Approach for the Safety Element, FIGS.
16-19.
For the arrangement of FIGS. 1-13, the safety element 31 was
mounted by a twist mount involving interaction between slots 206
and posts 210. An alternate arrangement is shown, in FIGS.
16-18.
In FIG. 16, an end view in air cleaner 400 according to the
alternate arrangement is shown. The end view of FIG. 16 is
generally analogous to the end view of FIG. 9. The parts used in
air cleaner assembly 400 may be generally as described above the
arrangement of FIGS. 1-13, or even as characterized in alternate
arrangements, except as described herein in connection with the
mounting of the safety element.
In general, the air cleaner assembly 400 includes a housing 401
having an outer sidewall 402. In FIG. 16, the air cleaner assembly
400 is shown with an end cover removed. However, the end cover may
be generally analogous to end cover 20, FIG. 1.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 17, which is a cross-section
taken along line 17-17, FIG. 16. Referring to FIG. 17, the sidewall
402 is a jointed sidewall having segments 405 and 406. The segments
405 and 406 may be generally as described above in connection with
segments 261, 262, FIG. 1. It is noted that end 410 of the sidewall
402 is closed by a stepped cover 411 having outlet 412 projecting
therefrom. The outlet 412 includes a tap 413 for a pressure sensor
or similar arrangement.
More specifically, cover 411 is stepped at first step 415 and
second step 416. In use, the safety element is sealed to second
step 416.
Unlike the arrangement of FIGS. 1-13, there are no posts positioned
in the step 416, for securing a safety element in place. Rather
adjacent region 416, immediately between step 416 and 415, are
provided several space protrusions 420. For the arrangement shown,
there would be four protrusions 420, equally radially spaced around
an inner most edge of step 416. The operation of these protrusions
420 will be understood from further description below.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 18 which depicts a fragmentary
view of a portion of the housing 401 depicted in FIG. 17, but with
the safety element 430 mounted therein. The safety element 430
maybe generally as characterized above for safety element 31,
except for mounting mechanism thereon, described herein. In
particular, safety element 430 does not include any slots analogous
to slots 206. Rather safety element 430 only includes an o-ring
receiver 431 with 432 therein.
During assembly, safety element 430 would be pressed toward step
416 in the general direction of arrow 440, as the safety element is
inserted into open end 445, FIG. 17, of the housing 401. The safety
element would continued to be pushed in the direction of arrow 440
until the o-ring 432 is sealed against an inner surface 416a of
step 416. In order to accomplish this sealing, the o-ring 32 would
need to be pushed passed protrusions 420. The protrusions, then,
will act to cause an interference fit, prohibiting the likelihood
that the safety element 430 would not intentionally become
dislodged from its mounting, FIG. 18, by movement of the safety
element in the direction of arrow 450. The protrusions 420, then,
in combination with the outside diameter of the o-ring 43, causes a
lock fit of the safety element 430 in place, without requiring a
twist motion.
Of course the mounting approach described with respect to FIG.
16-18 could be applied with a non-jointed housing, if desired.
2. A First Alternate Cover Mount.
An alternate cover mount is shown in FIG. 19. Referring to FIG. 19
air cleaner assembly 500 is depicted, comprising a housing 501,
having an outer sidewall 502 and a cover 503 mounted thereon.
Except for the approach of mounting, the cover 503 may be generally
similar to cover 20, FIG. 1, including options described.
In particular, cover 503 is mounted onto end 505 of housing
sidewall 502, by over center wire latches 506. This is opposed to
using a latch mechanism such as the integral latch mechanism
described for the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13.
It is noted that the arrangement of FIG. 19 includes a pin or key
530 positioned on the cover, to be received within a slot 531 at
end 505 of sidewall 502, to ensure appropriate radial orientation
of cover 503 relative to sidewall 502 during mounting. That is,
cover 503 for the arrangement shown, can be mounted in only one
radial orientation.
3. An Alternate Mounting Arrangement for the Primary Element, FIG.
20.
In the arrangement of FIGS. 1-13, the primary element 30, is
mounted using a rotation lock mechanism 129, as described. As a
result, the primary element 30, is sealed with an axial seal as
described.
An alternate approach, which utilizes a radial seal mechanism, is
possible, as previously indicated. One such arrangement is shown in
FIG. 20.
Referring to FIG. 20, a fragmentary perspective view of an
alternate primary element 600, is shown. In FIG. 20, the portion of
the element 600 viewable, is the end cap 601 that would correspond
to the end cap that is inserted furthest into the housing, during
use. In particular, end cap 601 is the exit end for filtered
air.
End cap 601 is provided with a central axial protrusion 602
thereon, that projects axially away from a remainder 603 of the
primary element 600. The axial protrusion 602 includes an o-ring
mount 605 with an o-ring 606 positioned thereon. With such an
arrangement, the primary element 600 could be mounted by insertion
past the protrusions 420, FIG. 18, in place of the safety element.
That is, primary element 600 could be mounted analogously to safety
element 430, FIG. 18. That result would be a radial seal formed by
o-ring 606, as opposed to an axial seal arrangement.
During normal mounting, the filter element 600 of FIG. 20, would
not be twisted or rotated. Thus it may be preferable to manufacture
primary element 600 without outside framework extending completely
between the opposite ends. Rather, while shields may be at
positions adjacent each end (or at least the outlet end) to
facilitate use, it may be desirable to leave cross hatch open
framework extending between the ends out, since it would not be
needed to translate rotational motion and provide for support. This
is a matter of choice, depending upon other features in the
construction.
A safety element could be mounted in association with arrangement
such as FIG. 20, by providing a structural location in region 610,
to allow for the safety element to be mounted. It is noted that for
the particular arrangement of FIG. 20, internal (optional) open
framework 612 is shown extending axially along inside 613 of the
element 600. The open framework 612 could extend from end to end,
of the element 600.
4. An Alternate Primary Element with a Precleaner Mounted Directly
Thereon.
For the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, the precleaner 35 was mounted
directly on the cover 20. As indicated previously, alternate
embodiments are shown. In particular, attention is directed to FIG.
21, in which a primary filter element 800 is depicted, in
fragmentary, cross-sectional view. In particular, a closed end 801
of the primary filter element 800 is depicted. Closed end 801 is
shown having framework 802 extending there across, with the
receiver 803, for engagement with the cover. The framework 802 is
shown secured in place by end potting 805. This closes the end of
media 806. As thus far described, the arrangement is generally
analogous to the primary element 30 of FIGS. 1-13. However, for
element 801, shield 810 and ramp 813 are shown non-permanently as
part of the primary filter element 800, thus are not mounted on the
cover. FIG. 21 is presented simply to indicate an alternate
arrangement in which a precleaner 815, comprising of shield 810 and
ramp 813 are used. In this alternate embodiment, the precleaner 815
is mounted directly onto the primary element 800, as opposed to the
cover.
The remainder of the assembly utilized with respect to precleaner
800 may be generally analogous to that described for the embodiment
of FIGS. 1-13, or for the alternate embodiments described.
Of course as a still further alternate, the cover 20, precleaner
(135, 815) and element (30, 200) could be made permanently
connected to one another. Possible modifications to accomplish this
will be apparent from the general teachings herein.
5. A Further Alternate Mounting Arrangement for the Cover, FIGS. 22
and 23.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 22 in which an air cleaner
assembly 900, comprising a housing 901 with a side wall 902 having
a cover 920 mounted thereon, as shown. The air cleaner 900 may be
generally described for the arrangements above, except as
characterized in this section. In particular, cover 920 includes,
molded thereon, wire latch mounts 921. Cover 920 further includes
wire latches 922, snap fit mounted to the mounts 921. As a result,
when disengaged, the latches 922 remain secured to the cover 920,
when the cover 920 is removed from the remainder of the housing
901. When this function is conducted, the wire latches 922 double
as handles, to facilitate handling the cover 920.
The wire latches 922 shown, are configured to engage over a lip or
similar structure of the housing 901, to project through slots 925,
926 in the housing sidewall 902 and cover 920 respectively, FIG.
23, to provide for a secure engagement.
Referring to FIG. 22, it is noted that analogously to the
arrangement of FIG. 1, the arrangement of FIG. 22 is a jointed
housing 930, having two sections 931 and 932. The connection
between the sections 931 and 932 is a modification, from the
arrangement of FIG. 1, but uses the same general principles. In
particular, section 932 includes a skirt 933 thereon, which
overlaps and circumscribes a portion of section 931. The skirt 933
includes apertures 934 therein radially spaced. Each aperture 934
is sized to engage a projection 935 on section 931, for lock
engagement. Thus, an interlock mechanism 936 is provided comprising
a projection (935) and receiver (934) arrangement.
A radial locater or indexed jointed mechanism arrangement using
receiver 938 in skirt 933, which overlaps a pin 939 on segment 931,
is also provided, similarly to the arrangement of FIG. 1.
It is also noted that the mounting mechanism 940 for the
arrangement 900 of FIG. 22, differs in detail from the analogous
arrangement for the embodiment of FIG. 1. However, its overall
operation is similar.
J. The Arrangement of FIGS. 24-27.
An improved arrangement is depicted in FIGS. 24-27. In FIG. 24, air
cleaner assembly 1100 is depicted comprising a housing 1101. The
housing 1101 is generally analogous to housing 901, FIG. 22, except
as characterized in this section. It is noted that the housing 1101
of FIG. 24 is schematic.
Referring to FIG. 24, access or service cover 1110 differs from
cover 920, in that no central recess is present. Further, access or
service cover 1110 includes a notch 1111 associated with a key or
pin 1112, at a different location, than the arrangement of FIG. 22.
Also, underneath latch 1120 access or service cover 1110 includes a
notch or slot 1121, in outer rim 1122 for receipt of pin, key or
projection 1123 on the remainder of the housing 1101. Thus, slot
1121/key 1123, along with slot 1111/key 1112, provide for preferred
rotational indexing between the cover 1110 and the remainder of the
housing 1101.
Still referring to FIG. 24, mounting arrangement 1130, for securing
the housing 1101 to a vehicle or the equipment, is also modified
from the arrangement of FIG. 22.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 25. Here the inside surface 1140
of cover 1110 is viewable. It is noted that instead of having an
"X" or plus-shaped ("+" shaped) projection, as shown for previous
arrangements, the cover 1110 includes, along internal surface 1140,
a projection arrangement comprising four posts 1141 arranged as the
corners of an "X" or plus-shape, to be received within a
non-circular, preferably "X" or plus shaped recess, not shown, in
the primary or main filter cartridge 1145. With respect to this
feature, cartridge 1145 may have an "X" or plus shaped receiver
analogous to the cartridge depicted in FIG. 4. The posts 1141 each
have curved outside surfaces, approximately as half of a cylinder,
or cone to facilitate engagement. The four posts 1141 allow for
four possible rotational positions of the cartridge 1145. Of course
fewer posts (1, 2 or 3) could be used to accomplish the same type
of effect, if properly positioned.
Still referring to FIG. 25, primary cartridge 1145 also includes
central circular rib 1146 thereon. The rib 1146, as seen in FIG.
26, would preferably extend completely around cartridge 1145 at a
central location, and in a direction generally orthogonal to a
central axis of the cartridge 1145. The rib 1146 provides a
projection that can be engaged by equipment, during manufacture. It
is not expected that rib 1146 will provide significant function, in
the assembled and operating air cleaner. However, it will add some
strength to the open frame work around the outside of primary
cartridge 1145.
In FIG. 27, a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly 1100
is shown. From a review of FIG. 27, it can be seen that a secondary
or safety filter 1150 for the assembly 1100 is constructed shorter
than the safety filter depicted in FIG. 2 at 31. Thus, at end 1151
filter 1150 does not include a receiver, to engage protection 1152
in the primary filter cartridge 1145.
In FIG. 27, an improved alternative for securing the media in a
secondary or safety filter 1150 is also provided. In particular, in
safety filter 1150, the media 1155 is secured within the framework
1156, during molding. That is, the media 1155 is positioned in the
mold, and the plastic framework 1156 is molded but with the media
1155 in place. Thus, as shown, the spaced axial ribs 1157 of the
safety filter 1150 each have central portion where the conical
media 1155 passes through them to extend between them over the
openings 1158. Of course, if it desired to use the framework of the
safety filter 1150 without the media 1155, the same molded
configuration can be used, but without the media present.
Referring to FIG. 24, it is noted that the housing 1101 does not
include a rotational joint at seam 1160. It has been determined
that during manufacture, the mold for housing 1101 can be
constructed such that the portion in which region 1162 is molded,
can be made rotatable relative to the portion in which region 1163
is molded. Thus, variations in rotational orientation between the
air inlet and the dust ejector outlet can be accommodated during
the molding process, by using a method involving a mold which has
two parts rotatably moveably relative to one another. Seam 1160 is
positioned with a joint between the two mold segments would be
located.
Referring to the cross section of FIG. 27, it is noted that the
safety element 1150 includes o-ring seal 1170; and, an extension
1171 positioned axially toward outlet 1175 for a remainder of the
safety element 1150. Extension 1171 can facilitate mounting and
engagement.
In other manners, the assembly 1100 may be constructed in accord
with the descriptions and variations presented herein, in
association with other embodiments. Also, the improvements
described for assembly 1100 can be applied in the other
embodiments.
K. The Arrangement of FIGS. 28-33.
A further improved arrangement is depicted in FIGS. 28-33. The air
cleaner assembly 1100 depicted in these Figs., and the
subcomponents thereof, may be generally analogous to the
arrangements depicted in FIGS. 24-27 and in other previous Figs.,
discussed above. Focus in this section will be with respect to
certain specific preferred features. It will be understood, that,
in general, components similarly positioned and depicted in the
figures provide for analogous operation to those of previously
described figures.
In FIG. 28 an assembly 1500 is depicted, including a housing 1503
having an air inlet 1505, an air outlet 1506, and dust ejector drop
tube 1507. The assembly 1500 also includes optional mounting
structure, legs or supports 1508 thereon, to facilitate mounting.
As with other arrangements described above, the assembly could
alternatively be mounted by a separate mounting band or
bracket.
Referring to FIG. 28, the housing 1503 has first and second
opposite ends 1516 and 1517. End 1516 is closed by a cover portion
1518 having outlet tube 1506, in this instance an axial outlet
tube, projecting therefrom. Referring to FIG. 28, for the
arrangement shown cover 1518 is integral with (i.e., is not
separable from), end 1516.
End 1517, the other end, is generally an open, service, end closed
by openable cover 1520. The cover 1520 is removable, for service
access to an interior of housing 1503.
The cover 1520 is secured in place by latches 1523 and 1524,
mounted on mounts 1523a and 1524a, respectively. The cover 1520 is
rotationally indexed, by a rotational index or indexing
arrangement, so that it can only be secured in place at one
orientation. For the cover 1520, indicia 1525 is provided, to
indicate a convenient orientation of the cover 1520 during
servicing. In particular, the indicia 1525 chosen, is an arrow that
points in the direction of the inlet 1505.
For the particular assembly 1500 depicted, portion 1500a of the
housing is secured to portion 1500b, at seam 1500c. Portion 1500a
is non-rotatable relative to portion 1500b. However the mold from
which the two portions are formed, can be provided with a rotatable
joint at a portion corresponding to 1500c, so that the two pieces
1500a and 1500b can be molded as a single unit, with any preferred
rotational orientation of section 1500a relative to section 1500b,
that is desired. Rotation is generally selected so that the inlet
tube 1505 has an orientation preferred for particular equipment
which the air cleaner 1500 is to be used. For the particular
example shown in FIG. 28, the inlet tube 1505 projects in a
direction parallel to the arrow of indicia 1525, and in a general
direction parallel to the direction of dust drop tube 1507,
although alternatives are possible.
Rotational indexing of the cover 1520 on the housing 1528, can be
provided by a variety of structures. Referring, for example, to
FIG. 29, at open end 1517 housing 1503 is provided with outer key
or projection 1530 which, during assembly, is received within
receiver or slot 1531 on cover 1520. Also, on cover 1520 a key or
projection 1533 is provided, which is received within receiver or
slot 1534 on housing 1503. Further the cover 1520 includes thereon
keys or projections 1536 and 1537, FIG. 30, received within slots
or receivers 1538 and 1539, respectively, FIG. 29, during assembly.
Finally receiver or slot 1540 is shown, FIG. 29, to receive a
similar key or projection to projections 1533, 1537, and 1536,
appropriately rotationally positioned on cover 1520, FIG. 29, but
not viewable.
Attention is directed to FIG. 30, which shows an inside surface
1540 of cover 1520. Projecting centrally, internally, cover 1520
includes a plus (or "+") shaped projection 1541, which, in use, is
received within a plus (or "+") shaped receiver, 1550 on a primary
filter element 1551, in use.
Referring to FIG. 30, the plus (or "+") shaped projection 1541
depicted, has a generally hollow interior 1541a and is open in
direction toward an interior of air cleaner 1500.
Of course engagement between the plus (or "+") shaped projection
1541 and the plus (or "+") shaped receiver 1550, prevents rotation
of primary element 1551, after assembly and in operation. The plus
(or "+") shape allows for four possible rotational orientations
between the cover 1520 and the primary element 1551, although
alternatives are possible.
As indicated previously for other arrangements described,
preferably a projection analogous to projection 1541 is provided on
an inside surface 1540 of the cover 1520, to engage an
appropriately shaped receiver on an end of the primary filter
element 1551. The particular "+" shape chosen, is an example.
Preferably the shape chosen will be one that does not allow
rotation of the element 1551 relative to the cover 1520, once
engagement occurs. Thus, preferably the projection is not round,
and the receiver is not round.
Attention is directed to FIG. 29. For the particular arrangement
shown, positioned to be received projecting inside of primary
element 1551, is support structure 1560. The support structure may
be a component of a secondary filter element, or it may simply
comprise framework to support an interior of media contained within
primary filter element 1551. Thus, support structure 1560 may be
analogous to structure of safety element 1150, described above in
connection with FIGS. 24-27.
A difference between support structure 1560 and the previously
depicted support structure, is provided at closed end 1561, FIG.
29. In particular, at closed end 1561, central recess 1563 is
depicted, in extension across end 1561.
In general, it is anticipated that structure 1560 will be injection
molded. A convenient location for introduction of plastic into the
injection mold, is in center 1564 of end piece 1561. Such a molding
operation will leave a small projection or burr of plastic at
center 1564. Shaping the mold to form recess 1563, ensures that the
burr or projection of plastic at center 1564 is contained within
the recess 1563. This means that as an operator's hand is pressed
against end 1561, burr 1564 is recessed, and provides less
discomfort to the operator during installation.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 32, in which the serviceable
primary filter element of 1551 is depicted in side elevation. In
general, it has componentry similar to the embodiment described
above in connection with FIGS. 24-27. That is, it includes an outer
support structure 1580, preferably having an imperforate shield
region 1581 and a porous, perforated or open region 1582, around
which framework 1583 is provided. The element includes open end
1590, closed end 1591, and media 1592 extending therebetween.
Optional central circular projection 1593 is to facilitate machine
handling, during certain manufacturing steps.
The media 1592 may comprise a variety of types of media. For the
example shown the media 1592 is pleated media 1594.
The particular primary filter element 1551 depicted, has a conical
shaped portion, thus at region 1595, the media 1592 is provided
with a slightly larger outside diameter, than at end region 1596,
analogously to previously described embodiments. The conical shape
may be as previously described, for other embodiments.
At end 1590, a compressible axial seal gasket ring 1600 is
depicted. The ring 1600 may be similar to ring or rib 70, FIG. 5,
preferably comprising a compressible polyurethane foam and
preferably having a hardness of no greater than 30 Shore A.
Primary filter element 1551 also includes optional dust shield 1610
thereon, as a circular outwardly projecting ring spaced from end
1590. This is analogous to structure shown in the embodiment of
FIGS. 24-27.
Mounting structure 1620 is positioned on framework 1580 at a
location between shield 1610 and end 1600.
The mounting structure 1620 comprises spaced projections 1621,
configured to operate analogously to spaced projections in the
previous embodiments. Projections 1621, however, have a somewhat
different shape, as viewable in FIG. 32, from the arrangement of
FIG. 26.
In particular, projection 1621 includes opposite surfaces 1623,
1624 extending between ends 1625 and 1626.
Surface 624 is configured to engage a projection or holder
structure in a housing, during a twist lock operation to secure
element 1551 in place, analogously to the operation described above
for other embodiments.
Surface 1624, then, is preferably provided with a cam surface 1630,
which recesses (in extension from tip 1625) toward dust ring 1610
or end 1591, from end 1590. The cam surface 1630 ends at surface
portion 1631 which itself terminates at stop 1632. Thus, during
operation, element 1551 will be pushed into the housing, until tip
1625 passes a holder, lug or projection analogous to projections
140, FIG. 9. Rotation of element 1551 will bring tip 1625 around
the projection, for engagement between cam surface 1630 and the
projection. Continued rotation will bring the projection along
surface 1631 until stop 1632 is encountered by the holder, lug or
projection in the housing.
Unlike the arrangement of FIG. 26, projections 1620 do not have
tails extending radially around surface 1640, toward a next
adjacent projection. This leaves a larger (relative) gap between
end 1626 and a tip 1625 of a next adjacent projection 1620.
Preferably at an angular spacing of at least 20.degree., more
preferably at least 35.degree.-70.degree., is provided, for
convenient assembly.
In FIG. 33, framework 1583, for forming primary filter element 1551
is depicted. The framework 1583 of FIG. 33 could be analogous to
the framework depicted in FIG. 26.
Still referring to FIG. 32, in general mounting structure 1620,
then, comprises a portion of a non-continuously treaded rotational
interlocking arrangement, when used in association with appropriate
projection or holder arrangement on a housing. Further, the
mounting structure 1620 comprises a segmented ring of projections
or segments 1621, each of which is radially spaced from a next
adjacent one; and, each of which is preferably integral with (i.e.,
molded as part of) framework 1580. The number of projections,
generally indicate the number of rotational orientations possible
for the primary element 1551, in a housing 1503, FIG. 28.
In FIG. 33, outer framework or outer support structure 1580 usable
to form primary filter element analogous to element 1551, FIG. 32,
is depicted. The framework 1580 may be used, in assembly,
analogously to the discussed above for FIG. 8.
With respect to FIG. 33, attention is directed to end 1640, to be
covered by an end cap, in use. End 1640 has an open (or perforate)
portion 1641 generated by framework 1642, in particular radial
pieces 1643 and central piece 1644.
In a central region end 1640 includes closed (imperforate) portion
1650 having central receiver or recess 1645 therein. The particular
central recess 1645 depicted, has a plus (or "+") shape, for
receiving a projection on the cover in use.
In use of framework 1580, to manufacture an element, pleated media
would be positioned inside the framework 1580, with an end engaging
framework 1642. Potted end caps would be formed at the opposite
ends 1640, 1670, with the end cap or potting at end 1670 being
open, and defining the axial seal 1600, FIG. 32. The media will be
supported along an inside adjacent framework 1642, by surrounding
central portion 1650, which projects into the open center of the
framework 1580.
At end 1640, the material will be potted into end cap material (or
potting), to cover the opened area 1641, without covering the
central portion 1650 and recess 1645. The result would be structure
analogous to that shown and discussed above, for example with
respect to FIG. 4.
For convenience, in FIG. 31 a cross-sectional view of assembly
1500, FIG. 28, is depicted. This view is analogous to the view of
FIG. 3. In it, primary element 1551, support 1560, housing 1503 and
cover 1520 are viewable.
Above it was mentioned that the inner support 1560, could comprise
a support of a secondary filter, for example as described above for
other embodiments.
Attention is now directed to FIG. 31. In FIG. 31, it can be seen
that when latched, the latches 1523 each include a projection
1523b, which extends through both a portion of the housing 1503 and
a portion of the cover 1520, during latching. This is analogous to
the arrangement shown above, in FIG. 27.
Referring to FIG. 29, it is noted that inner support 1540 includes
o-ring 1700 thereon, for sealing, radially, in the housing, during
use. This sealing is depicted in FIG. 32.
L. Materials and Construction.
Principles according to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and
PCT Application US 03/33952 can be implemented in a variety of
sizes, shapes and configurations of equipment, and using a variety
of materials. However, the principles were developed for
application in preferred arrangements and configurations, and with
certain preferred materials.
For example, in general the configurations shown will be
particularly advantageous for use as an air cleaner for a vehicle
having an air flow demand, at rated operation, the order of about
1,500 cubic feet per minute (cfm) or less, typically about 300 cfm
or less; i.e., on the order of 43 cubic meters or less, typically
about 9 cubic meters or less. These types of air cleaners are
generally found on equipment that uses small gas or small diesel
engines.
The typical air cleaners used in such applications, would have an
overall outside diameter of the housing, on the order of at least
130 mm., typically 130-170 mm.; and a housing sidewall length of at
least 300 mm. typically from 300 mm. to 600 mm. (i.e., distance
between ends 16 and 17), FIG. 1. The outer support 90 of primary
filter cartridge 30, would have a largest outside diameter D1, of
at least 120 mm., and smallest outside diameter D2 on the order of
about 110 mm. or less, with a conical angle or taper (i.e., angle
A, FIG. 6, where dotted line 950 is parallel to central axis 12,
FIG. 3) between the ends, extending at an angle on an order of at
least 1.degree. typically within the range of 2.degree. to
4.degree., and with an overall length of at least 100 mm and
typically 110-150 mm. The aperture 102, FIG. 8, would have a
diameter of at least 115 mm., typically 118 mm. to 125 mm.
In general, dimension materials for the rib 70 and the interlock
arrangement 129, should be selected to provide for a compression of
rib 70 of at least 0.5 mm., typically 1-2 mm., in use. The
desirable material for rib 70, and indeed end cap 92, is a foamed
polyurethane preferably to be selected to have a hardness, Shore A,
of no greater than about 30, and preferably no greater than about
22, most preferably below 20.
Preferably with such arrangements, the polyurethane formulation
chosen provides for a high foam, very soft, molded end cap.
Preferably the formula chosen will be such as to provide end caps
(parts molded from the polyurethane) having an as molded density of
no greater than 28 lbs./cubic foot (about 450 kilograms/cubic
meter), more preferably no more than 22 lbs./cubic foot (355
kilograms/cubic meter), typically no greater than 18 lbs/cubic foot
(290 kilograms/cubic meter) and preferably within the range of 13
to 17 lbs/cubic foot (208-275 kilograms/cubic meter).
Herein the term "as molded density" is meant to refer to its normal
definition of weight divided by volume. A water displacement test
or similar test can be utilized to determine volume of a sample of
the molded foam. It is not necessary when applying the volume test,
to pursue water absorption into the pores of the porous material,
and to displace the air the pores represent. Thus, the water volume
displacement test used, to determine sample volume, would be an
immediate displacement, without waiting for a long period to
displace air within the material pores. Alternately stated, only
the volume represented by the outer perimeter of the sample need be
used for the as molded density calculation.
In general, compression load deflection is a physical
characteristic that indicates firmness, i.e. resistance to
compression. In general, it is measured in terms of the amount of
pressure required to deflect a given sample of 25% of its
thickness. Compression load deflection tests can be conducted in
accord with ASTM 3574, incorporated herein by reference. In
general, compression load deflection may be evaluated in connection
with aged samples. A typical technique is to measure the
compression load deflection on samples that have been fully cured
for 72 hours at 75.degree. F. or forced cured at 190.degree. F. for
5 hours.
Preferred materials will be ones which when molded, show a
compression load deflection, in accord with ASTM 3574, on a sample
measured after heat aging at 158.degree. F. for seven days, on
average, of 14 psi or less, typically within the range of 6-14 psi,
and preferably within the range of 7-10 psi.
Compression set is an evaluation of the extent to which a sample of
the material (that is subjected to compression of the defined type
and under defined conditions), returns to its previous thickness or
height when the compression forces are removed. Conditions for
evaluating compression set on urethane materials are also provided
in ASTM 3574.
Typical desirable materials will be ones which, upon cure, provide
a material that has a compression set of no more than about 18%,
and typically about 8-13%, when measured on a sample compressed to
50% of its height and held at that compression at a temperature of
180.degree. F. for 22 hours.
In general, the compression load deflection and compression set
characteristics can be measured on sample plugs prepared from the
same resin as used to form the end cap, or on sample cut from the
end cap. Typically, industrial processing methods will involve
regularly making test sample plugs made from the resin material,
rather than direct testing on portions cut from molded end
caps.
Urethane resin systems useable to provide materials having physical
properties within the as molded density, compression set and
compression load deflection definition as provided above, can be
readily obtained from a variety of polyurethane resin formulators,
including such suppliers as BASF Corp., Wyandotte Mich., 48192.
One example usable material includes the following polyurethane,
processed to an end product having an "as molded" density of 14-22
pounds per cubic foot (224-353 kilograms/cubic meter). The
polyurethane comprises a material made with I36070R resin and
I305OU isocyanate, which are sold exclusively to the assignee
Donaldson by BASF Corporation, Wyandotte, Mich. 48192.
The materials would typically be mixed in a mix ratio of 100 parts
I36070R resin to 45.5 parts I3050U isocyanate (by weight). The
specific gravity of the resin is 1.04 (8.7 lbs/gallon) and for the
isocyanate it is 1.20 (10 lbs/gallon). The materials are typically
mixed with a high dynamic shear mixer. The component temperatures
should be 70-95.degree. F. The mold temperatures should be
115-135.degree. F.
The resin material I36070R has the following description:
(a) Average molecular weight 1) Base polyether polyol=500-15,000 2)
Diols=0-10,000 3) Triols=500-15,000
(b) Average functionality 1) total system=1.5-3.2
(c) Hydroxyl number 1) total systems=100-300
(d) Catalysts 1) amine=Air Products 0.1-3.0 PPH
(e) Surfactants 1) total system=0.1-2.0 PPH
(f) Water 1) total system=0.2-0.5%
(g) Pigments/dyes 1) total system=1-5% carbon black
(h) Blowing agent 1) water.
The 13050U isocyanate description is as follows:
(a) NCO content--22.4-23.4 wt %
(b) Viscosity, cps at 25.degree. C.=600-800
(c) Density=1.21 g/cm.sup.3 at 25.degree. C.
(d) Initial boiling pt.--190.degree. C. at 5 mm Hg
(e) Vapor pressure=0.0002 Hg at 25.degree. C.
(f) Appearance--colorless liquid
(g) Flash point (Densky-Martins closed cup)=200.degree. C.
The material selected for the media may be varied, depending on the
anticipated environment of use and availability of various
pleatable substrates.
Conventional media available from such suppliers as Hollingsworth
and Vose of East Walpole, Mass. can be utilized. It is anticipated
that in typical arrangements, pleats 85 in the order of 3/8 inch to
3 inches (0.9 cm to 7.6 cm) in depth, with a pleat population,
around the inner diameter, of about 10 to 14 per inch at the larger
diameter end (15 to 20 per inch at the smaller diameter end) with a
conical unit being used.
The principal structural component of the primary filter cartridge
30, i.e., support 90, will generally be made from a rigid plastic
such as a glass filled nylon (for example 33% glass filled nylon
6/6, 1.5 mm. thick). Such a component could generally be made by a
plastic molding operation, for example injection molding.
Support structure 160, which operates as either an inner support
for the primary filter cartridge 30 or as both an inner support for
the primary filter cartridge 30 and an outer support for a optional
safety cartridge 31, will generally be formed from a rigid plastic
similar to that used for support 90 formed using a similar molding
process. The media 65 or the safety filter cartridge 31 is a matter
of preference for the particular application, and it would
typically be non-pleated media with a side coated with a selected
surface modifier, such as a tackifier.
Preferably both the primary filter cartridge and the secondary
filter cartridge at least 98%, by weight, metal free, most
preferably 100% metal free.
The housing sidewall segments 261 and 262 (or for the embodiment
300 of FIG. 14, sidewall segment 301), are preferably molded from
plastic materials such as a glass filled nylon (for example 33%
glass filled nylon 6/6, 2 mm. thick). For these components an
injection molding process could be used. Preferably each of the
components (except where possibly reinforced by a metal grommet to
receive bolts for connection to other components such as a truck
frame and/or the latches) is at least 98%, by weight, metal free,
preferably 100% metal free. Metal grommets might be utilized, for
example, inside of mounting legs 8 or tap 6a.
Cover 20 for the particular preferred embodiment shown, is sized
and shaped so that it can be molded from plastic materials. It is
anticipated that in general the precleaner 35, comprising shield 37
and ramp 36, would be premolded for example from glass filled nylon
or polypropylene by an injection molding process, and would then be
attached to a remainder of the cover 20, for example by heat
staking, with an adhesive or with a snap (mechanical) fit.
The remainder of the cover 20, would preferably be molded from the
same material as used for housing segments 261, 262, in an
injection molding process. The latches 171 could be molded
integrally with cover 20 in such a process. The cover 20 is
preferably at least 98% metal free, most preferably 100% metal
free.
The inlet tube 5 would typically have an inside diameter on the
order of about 50 to 200 mm., for example about 60 mm., and the
outlet tube 6 would have an inside diameter of about the same. The
down tube 7 would have an inside diameter on the order of about 45
to 55 mm., for example about 51 mm.
Typically and preferably the ramp 36 would extend through a
rotation of about 150.degree.-280.degree. from end 400 to end 401,
FIG. 5, and would extend longitudinally along sidewall 9 over a
distance of at least as wide as the diameter of the entrance to
tube 5, preferably slightly more.
The above dimensions, materials and specific described shapes, are
meant to be exemplary only, and are not intended to be limiting
unless specifically characterized as such. It will be apparent from
the above, however, how the various techniques and improvements
described in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/691,856 and PCT
Application US 03/39952 can be applied in a wide variety of
contexts and specific applications.
II. Air Cleaner and Componentry Configuration, FIGS. 34-38
The reference number 2000, FIG. 34, depicts an air cleaner
according to the present disclosure, in cross-sectional view. The
air cleaner 2000 comprises a housing 2001 having a body section or
body 2002 with an open end 2002a closed by a removable access cover
2003. Although alternatives are possible, analogously to the cover
disclosed in previous descriptions relating to FIGS. 1-33, cover
2003 is secured in place on body 2002 by latches, an example latch
being shown at 2004. Cover 2003 would preferably be provided with a
rotational indexing arrangement (such as a slot and key
arrangement) similar to those described for previous figures. Cover
2003 preferably includes a precleaner arrangement similar to those
previously described and comprising: shield 2005, projecting into
interior 2002b of body 2002 from end 2002a. Shield 2005 includes an
air flow ramp arrangement 2006 thereon, to impart a cyclonic or
circular motion around shield 2005, from air passing into interior
2002b through air flow inlet 2010. Inlet 2010 is preferably a
tangential flow inlet.
Still referring to FIG. 34, air cleaner 2000 includes, secured
therein, a primary filter element or cartridge 2020. The primary
filter element 2020 comprises filter media 2021 secured in
extension between opposite end caps 2022 and 2023. End cap 2022 is
a closed end cap. End cap 2023 is an open end cap. Thus air flow
which passes through media 2021 into interior 2025, defined by
filter cartridge 2020, can eventually pass outwardly from region
2025 through axial clean air outlet 2028 of air cleaner body
2002.
Although alternatives are possible, for the particular example
shown, media 2021 is pleated media 2029 positioned in extension
between an outer liner 2030 and an inner liner 2031. Expandable
metal liners can be used for liners 2030 and 2031, although
alternatives are possible. In some applications, one or both of the
liners may be avoided. However, liners are preferred, for providing
structural integrity, especially for larger elements.
Although alternatives are possible in some applications, for the
particular arrangement shown in FIG. 34, closed end cap 2022
comprises: (a) molded-in-place ring 2034; and, (b) central,
preformed, bowl or projection arrangement 2036. The central
projection is generally preformed and is then partially embedded
within ring 2034; during molding of ring 2034. A preform with
features of this general type is described in U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/721,934, filed Nov. 24, 2003, published as 2004/0103787 A1
on Jun. 3, 2004, incorporated herein by reference. Referring to
FIG. 34, it is noted that projection 2036 extends axially, inwardly
from a location near end 2038 of media 2021, toward opposite end
2039. In a central region 2040, projection 2036 includes a reverse
frusto-conical section 2041, which projects, axially, back toward
cover 2003. Projection 2036 can be, thus, viewed as a bowl, with a
central conical projection 2041.
In a central region, cover 2003 includes a projection 2045
extending axially inwardly of cartridge 2020, in particular into
the bowl 2036; with a central portion including a reverse, axial,
frusto-conical projection (with matching recess) 2046, sized to
receive projection 2041. Such a mating projection arrangement
between projections 2036 and 2045, can help ensure that cover 2003
is appropriately positioned, and cartridge 2020 is appropriately
positioned. Preferably, projection 2045 has a non-circular outer
perimeter (for example pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal or
octagonal). Preferably projection 2036 has a circular perimeter in
cross-section (i.e., conical shape) in region 2036a, adjacent media
2021.
For the particular air cleaner 2000 depicted, primary filter
element or cartridge 2020 is generally conical (or frusto-conical)
in shape, having the media 2021 defining a larger outer perimeter,
diameter or dimension at end 2039 than at end 2038. Thus a narrow
end 2038 of the conical cartridge 2020 is projected into shield
2005, to be surrounded thereby.
Preferably, shield 2005 extends axially along cartridge 2020 at
least 10% of its axial length, preferably at least 20% of its axial
length and most preferably at least 25% of its axial length.
Still referring to FIG. 34, end cap 2023 preferably comprises a
molded (typically polyurethane) end cap, forming an outer, annular,
radial seal at 2060, for sealing within annular surface 2061 in
housing body 2002. The annular sealing surface or region 2060 in
end cap 2023 could be provided with a tapered shape, for example a
stepped shape as shown in FIG. 35, to a narrow size near tip 2060a
to facilitate sealing. A soft compressible urethane as previously
characterized herein could be used for end cap 2023, although
alternatives are possible.
End cap 2023 includes radially spaced axial bumpers or projections
2065 thereon, to provide for tolerance take up at length. Bumpers
2065 can be segments of a ring, as shown, although alternatives are
possible. Similarly end cap 2022 has humps or projections at 2070.
The projections 2065 and 2070 need not have the same size or
shape.
Although alternatives are possible, in the particular example
shown, end cap 2023, when installed, does not form an axial seal
with any portion of the housing 2001, nor does it form an internal
radial seal with any portion of the housing 2001. Thus, it (and the
associated cartridge) can be said to be "axial seal free" and
"inside radial seal free," when in the preferred form of FIG.
34.
Still referring to FIG. 34, positioned within interior space 2025,
for the particular air cleaner 2000 depicted, is a secondary or
safety filter 2080; the filter 2080 comprising media 2081 extending
between opposite end caps 2082 and 2083. End cap 2083 is a closed
end cap, with no aperture therethrough. It includes an axial
projection 2084 having a generally frusto-conical shape, in this
instance of circular cross-section, positioned to extend axially
into projection 2040, of the main element 2020, and away from end
cap 2082. This will help center the main element 2020, and support
the safety element 2080.
Although alternatives are possible, the media 2081 can be
positioned between inner and outer support liners 2080a, 2080b, as
shown. Expanded metal liners, or alternatives, can be used. Pleated
media for media 2081 can be used, but alternate media types can
also, in some instances.
End cap 2082 is an open end cap, having an air flow aperture 2088
therein. Surrounding aperture 2088 end cap 2082 provides for an
outer annular radial seal surface at portion 2089, for radially
sealing on housing axial flange 2090, in housing body 2002, via an
outside or annular radial seal. Although alternatives are possible,
preferably end cap 2082 is configured to only form the outside
radial seal shown, and to form no axial seal or inside radial seal
with any portion of the air cleaner 2000, although alternatives are
possible. Thus, for the preferred arrangement shown, safety or
secondary cartridge (element) 2080 and end cap 2082, are both
"axial seal free" and "inside radial seal free."
Still referring to FIG. 34, a dust drop tube is shown at 2095. In
operation, air would enter through inlet 2010, which could, in some
applications, be positioned at a different rotational location from
where located. The dust would be directed into the cyclonic
precleaner arrangement including ramp 2006, to be directed in a
cyclonic flow, similarly to the descriptions with respect to
previous figures. Again, the cover 2003 can be provided with
rotational indexing, to provide a proper orientation for the ramp
2006 relative to the inlet 2010. The dust would in part be driven
through region 2097, toward dust drop tube 2095, for ejection. Air
would be filtered by passage through filter cartridge 2020. It
would then pass through safety cartridge 2080, and outwardly
through outlet tube 2028.
Still referring to FIG. 34, main cartridge 2020 includes, adjacent
end 2050, a preform shield construction 2100 comprising: (i) an
axial extension or shield 2101, which in the arrangement shown
generally has a circular cross-section and a somewhat
frusto-conical shape; and, (ii) an outwardly (radially) projecting
ring or flange 2102, which, in the example shown, is a circular
ring. The ring or flange 2102 is generally positioned to stop dust
from entering the seal region 2104 of the main element 2020,
adjacent a region of body 2001, where dust ejector 2095 is located.
The flange preferably extends outwardly at least 5 mm, for example
5-15 mm, from the axial shield or extension 2101.
Axial extension 2101 operates as a shield or axial shield portion,
extending around cartridge 2020, at this location. The preform 2100
would generally have an end portion embedded within end cap 2023,
during assembly, as shown. Typically, the preform 2100 does not
extend completely between the opposite end caps 2022, 2023.
Preferably axial extension 2101 extends, axially, a distance at
least 5% of the axial length of cartridge 2020, typically and
preferably at least 15% of that length, from flange 2102 away from
end cap 2082 and toward an opposite end of cartridge 2080, i.e.,
toward end cap 2083.
The end cap materials for end caps 2065 and ring 2022, may, in many
instances, comprise a soft, compressible, foamed polyurethane such
as previously described herein. End cap preform 2036 generally will
be formed from a more rigid plastic such as a polypropylene, nylon
or similar material.
Similarly, end cap 2082 could be formed from a soft, foamed,
polyurethane as characterized herein, with end cap 2083 typically
being formed from a harder molded material, an example being a
harder form of polyurethane.
In FIG. 35, filter cartridge 2020 is depicted, with a portion
broken away for sectioning. In FIG. 36 an end view of end cap 2022
is depicted.
It is noted that no twist-lock connection, or rotationally actuated
connection, is provided between cartridge 2020 and housing 2001.
Thus the preferred cartridge 2020 can be said to be free of such
components, or can be characterized by similar terms.
In FIG. 37 a side view of safety element 2080 is depicted, with a
portion sectioned away. In FIG. 38, an end view directed toward end
cap 2083, is depicted.
It is noted that in FIG. 34, certain portions of the deformable
polyurethane of end caps 2023 and 2082 are depicted as if they are
not deformed. These show, by the drawn overlap with the associated
housing portions, where the end cap deformation during sealing can
be made to occur, and to what extent, for the example embodiment
shown.
Although alternatives are possible, the following dimensions are
indicative of an example application of the principles described
herein in connection with FIGS. 34-38. For the main filter element
or cartridge 2020, an overall length of 511.4 mm, not counting
axial bumps on the outer surfaces of the end cap; each of the bumps
being about 6-8 mm high, providing for a total length including the
bumps of about 525-528 mm. The largest outside dimension, of the
radial seal end cap 2023, would be about 298 mm. The largest
outside diameter of the closed end cap 2022, would be about 244 mm.
From this, the taper of the cone shape, for the example shown can
be determined, although it can also be measured from the
drawings.
Other example dimensions would include 70-80 mm, for a distance of
shield section 2101 axially toward end cap 2022, from ring 2102; a
depth of at least 15 mm, typically at least 20 mm and usually about
40-45 mm, for a deepest extension inwardly of projection 2036, from
an outside surface of end cap 2022; an axial extension of about
10-20 mm, for axial projection of region 2041 back toward cover
2003, from a deepest point of projection inwardly of region or bowl
2036. For the safety element 2080, an example dimension for
projection 2084 axially, for a remainder of end cap 2083, at an
outer surface thereof, would be about 15-25 mm.
The extent of projection of portion 2045 into cartridge 2020, i.e.,
into bowl 236 would typically be at least 15 mm, often at least 20
mm. Projection 2041, on the main cartridge 2020, would extend
axially outwardly at least about 10 mm, with a similar amount of
projection (at least 10 mm) a portion 2084 of end cap 2083.
An example of a conical angle for an outside surface of the main
filter cartridge 2020 would be tapering inwardly, from end cap 2023
toward end cap 2021 at an angle of at least 1.degree., typically
about 1-10.degree., for example about 2-7.degree.. A similar angle
could be used for the safety element 2081.
It is noted that for the primary filter cartridge 2020 depicted,
shield structure 2100 is a preformed piece separately made from
liner 2030, both being embedded in end cap 2022, to be secured in
the filter cartridge.
Other relative dimensions of the preform and end caps, for the main
filter element as well as other dimensions of the housing can be
evaluated from FIGS. 34 and 35, using scale based on the above
described dimensions.
With respect to the safety element, an overall length of about 475
mm, not counting projection 2084, with projection 2084 extending
about an additional 21 mm. The largest outside diameter of the
open, outside radial seal, end cap 2082 would be about 150.9 mm.
Other example dimensions can be drawn from the drawing, based on
the scale stated, for an example.
Of course alternatives to these dimension are possible, the example
dimensions merely provide an example.
Although alternatives are possible, it should be understood that
these example dimensions indicate the present features are adapted
for application, if desired, in relatively large air cleaners, for
example in which the primary filter element or cartridge 202 has an
axial length of at least 450 mm, and a largest outside diameter
(dimension) of at least 250 mm.
III. Additional Air Cleaner and Componentry Configuration, FIGS.
39-47
The reference numeral 2500, FIG. 39, depicts another embodiment of
an air cleaner according to the present disclosure, in
cross-sectional view. The air cleaner 2500 comprises a housing 2501
having a body section or body 2502 with an open end 2502a closed by
a removable access cover 2503. Although alternatives are possible,
analogously to the cover disclosed in previous descriptions
relating to other embodiments, cover 2503 is secured in place on
body 2502 by latches 2504. Referring to FIG. 40, an end view of
assembly 2500 taken toward cover 2053, for the particular air
cleaner 2500 depicted, three evenly radially spaced latches 2504
are used to secure cover 2503 in place, although alternatives are
possible. As shown in FIG. 39, for the assembly depicted, each
latch 2504, when secured, extends through both the body 2502 and
the cover 2503, although alternatives are possible.
Cover 2503 is typically and preferably provided with a rotational
indexing arrangement (such as a slot and key arrangement) similar
to those described for previous embodiments. Referring to FIG. 40,
one slot and key arrangement is depicted at 2504a comprising slot
2504b on cover 2504 and projection or key 2504c on body 2502.
Referring to FIG. 39, cover 2503 preferably includes a precleaner
arrangement similar to those previously described and comprising
shield 2505, secured on cover 2503 and projecting into interior
2502b of body 2502 from end 2502a. Shield 2505 includes an air flow
ramp arrangement 2506 thereon, configured to provide a cyclonic or
circular motion around shield 2505, to air passing into interior
2502b through air flow inlet 2510. Typically, inlet 2510 would be
configured as a tangential flow inlet.
Still referring to FIG. 39, air cleaner 2500 includes, secured
therein, a primary filter element or cartridge 2520. The primary
filter cartridge 2520 comprises filter media 2521 secured in
extension between opposite end caps 2522 and 2523. End cap 2522 is
a closed end cap. End cap 2523 is an open end cap. Thus, air flow
which passes through media 2521 into interior 2525, defined by
filter cartridge 2520, can eventually pass outwardly from region
2525 through axial clean air outlet 2528 of air cleaner body
2502.
Although alternatives are possible, for the particular example
shown, media 2521 is pleated media 2529; and, the cartridge 2520
has a conical shape.
In FIG. 41, cartridge 2520 is depicted in cross-sectional view.
Referring to FIG. 41, the cartridge 2520 depicted includes a
preform having an outer extension 2530 configured to extend between
end cap 2522 and end cap 2523. It is noted that the cartridge 2500
depicted in FIG. 41 is inner liner free; i.e., it has no inner
liner adjacent the media 2520, in extension between end caps 2522
and 2523. Inner support at this location, is provided by other
structure discussed below.
Although alternatives are possible in some applications, for the
particular cartridge 2520 depicted in FIG. 41, closed end cap 2522
comprises: (a) molded-in-place ring 2534; and, (b) preform section
2536. The preform section 2536 comprises a portion integral with
the outer structure 2530, to form a single preform 2530x. The
preform section 2536 includes: central imperforate region 2536a and
outer, perforate, ring region 2536b. The outer ring region 2536b
would generally be a grid or other perforate structure that allows
flow (rise) of resin therethrough, during element construction. In
this manner preform section 2536 is generally analogous to end 101a
framework 110, FIG. 8.
Also, unlike the preform 2100 of the embodiment of FIG. 35, preform
2536x extends completely between opposite end caps 2522 and
2523.
Still referring to FIG. 41, preform section 2536 further includes
flange 2536c, at the closed end of the cartridge 2520, positioned
along an inside surface of the media 2520. The media 2520, then,
becomes positioned between flange 2536c and outer support 2530.
Spaced radially inwardly from flange 2536c, is positioned central,
end, imperforate region 2536a. The central imperforate region 2536a
includes projection 2536d, which is spaced from flange 2536c,
inwardly, and projects into interior region 2525 of cartridge 2500.
The amount of projection is typically at least 5 mm, usually at
least 10 mm and in some instances at least 15 mm.
Central imperforate region 2536a further includes end 2536e which
includes central recess 2536f therein, defining a frusto-conical
recess projecting in an axial direction (i.e., axially) away from
end cap 2523. Alternately stated, central imperforate region 2536e
include frusto-conical projection 2536g thereon, which projects
axially away from end cap 2523. Of course an inside surface of
projection 2536g, defines frusto-conical recess 2536f.
The central imperforate region 2536e, and the frusto-conical recess
2536f, are features similar to those discussed hereinabove in
connection with FIGS. 34 and 35. However for the cartridge 2500 of
FIG. 41, projection ring or flange 2536d begins at a location
spaced from the media pack, not adjacent the media pack and, a
central flange 2536 is positioned between the media pack and the
projection 2536d.
Referring to FIG. 39, in a central region, cover 2503 includes
projection 2545 extending axially inwardly of cartridge 2520, in
particular into a bowl defined by central imperforate region 2536,
with a central portion including reverse axial frusto-conical
projection 2536g received in a central frusto-conical recess 2545a
of the cover 2503. Preferably projection 2545 has a non-circular
outer perimeter (for example pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal or
octagonal), although alternatives are possible. In some instances,
projection 2536d can be provided with a circular side definition,
for receipt of the projection 2545 on cover 2503, although again
alternatives are possible.
Referring then to FIG. 41A, preform 2530 includes: imperforate
axial shield region 2530a and perforate support region 2530b.
Imperforate shield region 2530a preferably is positioned adjacent
end cap 2523 and extends axially, along an outside of cartridge
2500 therefrom, around the media 2520, FIG. 39, a distance
corresponding preferably to no more than 50% of the axial length of
the cartridge 2500, typically and preferably no more than 30% of
that distance and often no more than 25% of that length.
The perforate region 2530b typically and preferably is at least 50%
open, and extends over an axial distance of at least 50% of the
axial length of the cartridge, and typically at least 60% (often at
least 70%) of the axial length of the cartridge.
The particular outer preform support 2530 depicted, includes
central projection 2531, analogous to projection 1146, FIG. 26.
Referring to FIG. 39, for the particular air cleaner 2500 depicted,
primary filter element or cartridge 2520 is generally conical (or
frusto-conical) in shape, having the media 2521 defining a larger
outer perimeter, diameter or dimension at end 2539 than at end
2538. Thus a narrow end 2538 of the conical cartridge 2520 is
projected into shield 2505, FIG. 39, during installation, to be
surrounded thereby.
Shield 2505, FIG. 39, extends axially along cartridge 2520 at least
10% of the axial length of the cartridge 2520, often at least 15%
of this axial length typically at least 20% of this axial length
and in many instances at least 25% of this axial length.
Referring to FIG. 41A, end cap 2523 typically comprises a molded
(typically polyurethane) end cap, sufficiently soft and
compressible to form an outer, annular, radial seal at 2560, for
sealing within an annular surface 2561, FIG. 39, of housing body
2502. The annular sealing surface at region 2560 and end cap 2523
can be provided with a tapered shape, for example a stepped shape
as shown in FIG. 41 to a narrow size near tip 2560a, to facilitate
sealing. A soft compressible urethane as previously characterized
herein can be used for end cap 2523, although alternatives are
possible.
It is noted that in FIG. 39, overlap between region 2560 and
housing step 2561 is shown, to depict the amount of compression
that would be typical.
Although alternatives are possible, in the particular example
shown, end cap 2523, when installed, does not form a compressed
axial seal with any portion of the housing 2501, nor does it form
an internal radial seal with any portion of the housing 2501.
Referring to FIGS. 39-42, it is noted that cartridge 2500 does not
contain any rotational engagement arrangement, for interaction with
the housing. Rather secure positioning within the housing is
provided by the compression of the seal in region 2560, during
installation. Thus, the cartridge 2500 can be said to be
"rotational engagement arrangement free."
The cartridge 2500, which is a removable and replaceable service
component, is secured within the housing 2501, by cover 2503.
Referring to FIG. 39, positioned in interior space 2525, for the
particular air cleaner 2500 depicted, is a secondary or safety
filter 2580. Referring to FIGS. 43, 43A and 44, the secondary or
safety filter 2580 comprises media 2581 extending between opposite
end structures 2582, 2583. The media 2581 is supported within
framework 2584, in particular within rib structures 2584a.
Cartridge 2581 may be generally constructed in by positioning media
2581 in a mold, and injection molding the rib structures 2584a;
along with a remainder of framework 2584.
At end structure 2582, FIG. 43, is provided end cap 2582a, which is
a closed end cap. End cap 2582 preferably includes an axially
outwardly projecting frusto-conical projection 2582b positioned to
extend away from end cap 2583 and sized to be received within an
interior projection 2536f on cartridge 2520, FIG. 41, during
installation, see FIG. 39. This helps center the main element 2520
and provides support for the safety element 2580.
In FIG. 43, safety cartridge 2580 is depicted in cross-sectional
view. End 2583 comprises a seal arrangement 2594 positioned around
an open aperture 2594a to define an inner radial seal, when
installed, against flange 2585 in housing 2501. The seal
arrangement 2594 can, for example, be a molded-in-place seal
arrangement comprising molded polyurethane, although alternatives
are possible.
Referring to FIG. 43, it is noted that safety cartridge 2580
includes a framework 2586 comprising axial ribs 2584a, and a radial
flange 2586a, with an axial support 2586b, for supporting a seal
formed by arrangement 2594.
Referring to FIG. 39, framework 2584 provides downstream support or
interior support for the media 2521 of cartridge 2520. Referring to
FIG. 43A, safety cartridge 2580 is depicted with framework 2584
including radial hoops or supports 2584b, to facilitate the
support.
It is noted that in some applications, a safety cartridge may not
be needed. In such instances, framework 2584 may be installed,
without media, for example to support pleated media 2529 of
cartridge 2520, during use.
Referring again to FIG. 39, a dust drop tube is shown at 2595. In
operation, air would enter through inlet 2510, which could, in some
applications, be positioned at a different rotational location from
where depicted. The dust would be directed into the cyclonic
precleaner arrangement including ramp 2506, to be directed in a
cyclonic flow, similarly to descriptions with respect to previous
figures. Again, the cover 2503 can be provided with a rotational
indexing, to provide for proper orientation of the ramp 2506
relative to the inlet 2510. The dust would in part be driven
through region 2597, toward dust drop tube 2595 for ejection. Air
would be filtered by passage through filter 2520. It would then
pass through the safety cartridge 2580 if present, and outwardly
through outlet tube 2528.
Still referring to FIG. 39, main cartridge 2520 includes, adjacent
end 2550, a preformed shield construction 2600 comprising: (i) an
axial extension 2530b of shield 2530a, which in the arrangement
shown generally has a circular cross-section and a conical shape;
and, (ii) an outwardly (radially) projecting ring or flange 2602
which, in the example shown, is a circular ring. The ring or flange
2602 is generally positioned to stop dust from entering the region
2604 of the main cartridge 2520, adjacent a region of body 2501,
where dust ejector 2595 is located. The flange usually extends
outwardly at least 5 mm, typically at least 10 mm, for example 10
mm-20 mm from a remainder of the axial shield or extension
2601.
The end cap materials for end cap 2523 and ring 2522 may, in many
instances, comprise a soft, compressible, foamed polyurethane as
previously mentioned and described herein. End cap preform 2536
(and a remainder of framework 2530) generally will be formed from a
more rigid plastic such as polypropylene, nylon or a similar
material. End cap 2582 of the safety element, would also be
typically be formed from a more rigid plastic material such as a
rigid polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon, or a similar material.
Seal 2584 of the safety element (for support) would typically
comprise a soft, compressible, foamed polyurethane as
described.
Referring to FIGS. 39 and 39A, it is noted that when the main
filter cartridge 2520 and the safety filter cartridge 2580 (or
support) are both installed, the main cartridge 2520 is positioned
with portion of end cap 2523 axially overlapping a portion of the
end cap 2583 of the safety element 2520. In particular, referring
to FIG. 39A, radial projection 2586a of the safety element 2580,
projects sufficiently radially, so that when installed, it is
positioned axially overlapped by a radially upper most portion of
end cap 2523 (of the main element 2520). This overlap is for
convenience, to allow both elements to be positioned within a
confined and desirably defined space. The overlap is typically not
utilized, for retention of the safety element 2580. Typically, the
safety element positioning and retentioning would be secured at the
opposite end, involving projection 2582b, FIG. 39, of the safety
element (or support) 2520 being received within recess 2536f of the
main cartridge. (Again, the framework of the safety element 2580
can be used without media, as a support for the main cartridge
2520.)
Attention is again directed to FIG. 39A which is an enlarged
fragmentary view of a portion of FIG. 39. In FIG. 39A, groove 2620
and end cap 2523 is shown. The groove 2620 extends inwardly from
outer axial surface 2621 of end cap 2523, toward media 2521, of
cartridge 2520. The groove 2620 is an artifact, from a mold used to
mold end cap 2523. The groove 2620 generally extends inwardly from
surface 2621, an axial distance of at least 1.5 mm, typically
1.5-5.0 mm. As seen in FIG. 45, schematic end view of cartridge
2520 taken toward end 2523, groove 2620 is preferably continuous
and circular.
The groove 2620 is typically positioned inwardly, from outer
surface 2560 of the radial seal region of the end cap, a distance
of at least 1.5 mm, typically at least 3 mm and usually 5-10 mm.
Although in some instances alternatives are possible, groove 2620
is typically either with inner most part 2620i axially aligned with
end 2530y of support 2530, or the inner most part 2620i of groove
2620 is radially off-set from such axial alignment by no more than
3 mm. (It is noted that surface 2523x is not at the same height as
surface 2560, usually it is about the same or within the range of
0.2-1.5 mm less, as shown.)
A molding process used to form groove 2620, can be used to
conveniently form the radial seal region 2560b, between radial seal
surface 2560 and support 2530b. In particular liquid can be poured
into a mold region corresponding to region 2560b, FIG. 39A, and
flash can be controlled, as the amount of resin is controlled by
the size of a mold ring useable to form groove 2620. Excess resin
could then flow into a region of the mold corresponding to molded
end cap portion 2622, FIG. 39A, where excess material or flash is
less of a concern.
In FIGS. 46 and 47, a side elevational view and perspective view of
the preform 2530 are shown.
In selected ones of FIGS. 39-47, example dimensions are shown.
Although alternatives are possible, the dimensions are indicative
of a useable example. Example dimensions would be as follows:
AA=375-475 mm, for example 425 mm (16.73 inch); BB=19.9 mm (0.78
inch); CC=101.6 mm (4.0 inch); DD=165 mm (6.5 inch); EE=140 mm
(5.51 inch); FF=50.8 mm (2.0 inch); GG=259 mm (10.2 inch); HH=98 mm
(3.86 inch); II=227.3 mm (8.95 inch); JJ=109.0 mm (4.29 inch);
KK=101.6 mm (4.0 inch); LL=300-400 mm, for example 358.9 mm (14.13
inch); MM=at least 1.degree., typically 1.degree.-5.degree. for
example 1.8.degree.; NN=130-190 mm, for example 161.5 mm (6.36
inch); OO=160-225 mm, for example 194.5 mm (7.66 inch); TT=210.9 mm
(8.3 inch); UU and WW=366.3 mm (14.42 inch); VV=at least 1.degree.,
typically 1.degree.-5.degree. for example 1.8.degree.; YY=95.9 mm
(3.78 inch); ZZ=129.0 mm (5.08 inch); A1=25.0 mm (0.98 inch);
A2=12.3 mm (0.48 inch); A3=7.3 mm (0.29 inch); A4=1.2 mm (0.05
inch); A5=12.0 mm (0.47 inch); A6=11.6 mm (0.46 inch); A7=0 4 mm
(0.02 inch); A8=0.3 mm (0.01 inch); A9=7.1 mm (0.28 inch); A10=6.1
mm (0.24 inch); A11=1.2 mm (0.05 inch); A12=0.5 mm (0.02 inch);
A13=7 8 mm (0.31 inch); and A14=13.3 mm (0.53 inch).
Although alternatives are possible, it should be noted that these
example dimensions indicate the present features are adapted for
application, if desired, in air cleaners of an intermediate size
between the largest of the large air cleaner examples of FIGS.
34-38, and the smallest examples corresponding to the features of
FIGS. 1-33.
* * * * *